Innovation in Materials Characterization Award

About this program

The Materials Research Society (MRS) Foundation offers the annual Innovation in Materials Characterization Award to recognize outstanding advances that significantly expand knowledge of materials’ structure, composition, behavior, or other properties. The award includes a $5,000 cash prize, trophy, certificate, and reimbursement of meeting registration, travel, and hotel expenses for attendance at the MRS Spring Meeting. Scientists and engineers in all areas of materials research may be nominated for impactful innovations in materials characterization, including methods and applications across any material class. Nominations are accepted June 1–August 1, 2026, with a deadline of August 1, 2026; required nomination materials and eligibility rules are specified by MRS.