Recognizing Excellence Among Brazilian Women in Global STEM
The Prêmio ScientistA 2026 stands as a significant initiative honoring Brazilian women who are advancing research and innovation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while based in the United States. Organized by Dimensions Sciences in partnership with the Silicon Valley chapter of Grupo Mulheres do Brasil and the Brazilian-American Life Sciences Association, the award highlights the contributions of early-career researchers who have completed their doctorates within the past decade.
Applications for the 2026 edition opened on May 11 and will close on July 11, providing a clear window for eligible candidates to submit materials through the official online form. The program offers one main prize of USD 2,000 along with five honorable mentions, accompanied by opportunities for national and international visibility.
Eligibility and Application Process
Candidates must be Brazilian women residing in the United States who hold positions in academic institutions, private companies, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or research institutes. Their work must involve research, development, innovation, or applied activities in STEM fields. A Ph.D. obtained in the last ten years is required, along with confirmation of their current institutional affiliation.
Applicants submit a curriculum vitae, Ph.D. diploma, recommendation letter, institutional confirmation letter, impact statement, and video presentation. The process is managed through a dedicated Google Form, ensuring accessibility for those meeting the criteria.
Timeline and Key Milestones for 2026
Following the application deadline, finalists are scheduled to be announced on October 5. A virtual professional development workshop takes place on October 13, offering participants additional career support. The award ceremony is planned for November 6 in San Francisco, bringing together recipients, board members, and stakeholders.
The scientific board for 2026 includes leaders such as Gessica Barros, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher at Duke University focused on mRNA translation and cellular health; Thais Rodrigues, Ph.D., a plant biotechnologist and R&D executive at Nufarm; and Mirian Krystel, Ph.D., a postdoctoral fellow at Stanford University studying ribosome biology and metabolic health.
Building Bridges Between Brazilian and U.S. Research Communities
The award name itself merges “scientist” and “cientista,” the Portuguese term for female scientist, symbolizing the connection between English- and Portuguese-speaking scientific worlds. This linguistic bridge reflects the broader goal of strengthening scientific exchange and production between Brazil and the United States.
By recognizing women who often began their academic journeys in Brazilian universities before pursuing opportunities abroad, the program underscores the global reach of Brazilian higher education. Recipients contribute to research environments in the U.S. while maintaining ties that can foster future collaborations, joint projects, and knowledge transfer back to institutions in Brazil.
Photo by alexsandra frizzera on Unsplash
Supporting Early-Career Researchers in STEM
Many Brazilian women in STEM face unique challenges when transitioning to international careers, including navigating visa processes, building networks in new environments, and balancing research demands with leadership development. The ScientistA Award addresses these realities by providing not only financial recognition but also platforms for visibility and professional growth.
Through the associated workshop and ceremony, participants gain exposure that can lead to new partnerships, speaking opportunities, and mentorship connections. This support is particularly valuable for those working in academia, where early-career researchers often balance teaching, grant writing, and publication pressures.
The Role of Diaspora Researchers in Advancing Brazilian Science
Brazilian women scientists based abroad represent an important extension of the country’s research capacity. Their work in U.S. institutions contributes to advancements that can benefit Brazilian higher education through shared findings, co-authored publications, and returning expertise.
The award encourages ongoing engagement with Brazilian academic communities, promoting a two-way flow of ideas. This approach helps address talent mobility while celebrating the achievements of those who have established successful careers internationally.
Partnerships Driving the Initiative
Dimensions Sciences focuses on promoting inclusion and professional development for scientists from diverse backgrounds. Grupo Mulheres do Brasil’s Silicon Valley chapter brings community leadership and local networks, while the Brazilian-American Life Sciences Association adds sector-specific expertise in life sciences.
These collaborations ensure the program remains grounded in both Brazilian cultural context and the realities of U.S. research environments. Sponsors further extend resources for visibility and event organization.
Broader Context of Women in Brazilian STEM Higher Education
Brazilian universities have long produced talented researchers who go on to excel globally. Initiatives like the ScientistA Award complement domestic efforts to support women in science by highlighting pathways that lead from Brazilian institutions to international impact.
Recognition programs of this kind can inspire current students and early-career faculty in Brazil, demonstrating tangible outcomes of pursuing advanced degrees and research careers. They also draw attention to the importance of inclusive policies that enable women to thrive in STEM disciplines across borders.
Photo by Trust "Tru" Katsande on Unsplash
Future Outlook and Continued Impact
As applications remain open through mid-July 2026, the program continues to attract a strong pool of candidates. The emphasis on both research excellence and science communication ensures that recipients serve as role models who inspire the next generation.
By documenting and celebrating these achievements, the award contributes to a growing narrative of Brazilian women’s leadership in global science. This visibility can encourage greater investment in gender equity initiatives within Brazilian higher education and strengthen international research partnerships.
How Brazilian Institutions Can Engage
Universities and research centers in Brazil may explore ways to connect with the ScientistA network, such as inviting recipients for seminars, co-hosting events, or supporting alumni who are eligible for future editions. Such engagement reinforces the value of international experience while maintaining strong links to the domestic academic ecosystem.
Faculty advisors and graduate programs can also inform students about opportunities like this award as part of broader career development discussions, helping prepare the next cohort of Brazilian women researchers for global contributions.
