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Royal Society Hauksbee Award

This award is for outstanding achievements in science by someone whose work is mostly ‘behind the scenes’ or in support, including technicians, research office staff or other contributors who might not normally be recognised.

  • Opening date

  • Closing date

  • Winners announcement

The award

ºìÌÒÊÓÆµ Hauksbee Award is awarded for outstanding achievements in science to an individual or team whose work is mostly ‘behind the scenes’ or in support, including technicians, research office staff or other contributors who might not normally be recognised.

The award is named after Francis Hauksbee who was Isaac Newton's laboratory assistant at ºìÌÒÊÓÆµ. During his time as President, Newton appointed Hauksbee as curator and instrument maker, and Hauksbee later became a Fellow in his own right in 1705.

The award winner or winners will be presented with a medal of silver gilt and a gift of £2,000.

The terms and conditions (PDF) for ºìÌÒÊÓÆµ Hauksbee Award should be read before submitting a nomination.

Eligibility

ºìÌÒÊÓÆµ Hauksbee Award is open to UK/Commonwealth/Republic of Ireland citizens or those who have been residents for three or more years. There are no restrictions on career stage and nominations will remain valid and shall be considered by the award selection committee throughout three nomination cycles. Teams or groups may be nominated for this award.

Nominations are closed

Nominations are closed and will reopen on 30 November 2026.

2026 winner

  • Stuart Naismith

    Stuart Naismith

    ºìÌÒÊÓÆµ Hauksbee Award 2026 is awarded to Stuart Naismith (Teacher of Innovation, Kelvinside Academy | Creator of STEM with Mr N) for his entrepreneurial approach to science education, despite having no science background, dedicating his time to developing his delivery of science throughout his school.

Past winners

  • Demonstrations team
    Awarded in 2025

    The Royal Institution Demonstration Team

    For being global leaders in spectacular science demonstrations, which are vitally important for effective education and communication of scientific concepts. Picture credit: Paul Wilkinson; The Royal Institution
  • Lisa Alford
    Awarded in 2024

    Mrs Lisa Alford

    For her extraordinary commitment to fostering engagement in science and promoting collaboration between schools.
  • Technicians: We make the difference
    Awarded in 2023

    100 technicians from 'Technicians: We Make the Difference' campaign.

    For their tireless efforts in tackling the critical technician skills shortage and their invaluable contributions to various industries.
  • Mr Neil Barnes
    Awarded in 2022

    Mr Neil Barnes

    For his outstanding skills as a research technician which have supported generations of physical chemists, and his continued inspiring of future scientists by popularising chemistry online, attracting thousands of fans worldwide.