The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) has opened nominations for its 2025-26 Research and Scholarship Annual Award competition. The awards recognize individuals who have made significant progress in advancing knowledge in their respective fields.
According to the announcement, "These awards celebrate the efforts and commitment of individuals who are making exceptional progress advancing knowledge in their areas of research and scholarship. They inspire and promote continued excellence at UIC."
Awards will be presented across several categories. In basic life sciences, clinical sciences, natural sciences and engineering, and social sciences, one Distinguished Researcher and one Rising Star will be chosen from each area. In humanities, arts, design, and architecture, one Distinguished Scholar and one Rising Star will be selected. Additional honors include Postdoctoral Scholar of the Year, Faculty Mentor of the Year, and Champion of Research Support.
Nominations can be submitted by anyone within the UIC community familiar with a candidate’s work or support for research activities. Self-nominations are permitted for all categories except Faculty Mentor of the Year. Notices of intent to nominate must be submitted by Friday, November 14. Full nominations with letters of support are due by Friday, December 19.
For more information about eligibility criteria or to access the application portal, individuals are directed to visit the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research website or contact Rebecca Milczarek at rds@uic.edu.
Additionally, UIC’s Office of Technology Management is accepting invitations for its annual Inventor of the Year award.
Award recipients will be announced in March 2026. A ceremony honoring winners is scheduled as part of UIC Research Week in April 2026.