Materials Innovation Medal

Nominations will next be invited in October 2026.

For outstanding contribution to technological development and innovation in materials science and engineering by an individual or a group.

The award is presented to individuals or groups of materials scientists or engineers that have made outstanding contributions in inventions and innovations that have favourable impact on the quality of life of individuals, general welfare, sustainability, environment or economy.
Successful nominees should have conducted the majority of their research work in a European university, company or institute.
The winner is expected to give a plenary lecture on their innovations at the next FEMS EUROMAT conference and to publish in the European Journal of Materials.

Nominations

Nominations are accepted from FEMS Member Societies only and must include the following:

  • Citation (100 words max)
  • Two letters of recommendation (at least one outside the nominee’s organisation)
  • Nominee’s list of patents
  • Nominee’s list of publications (if applicable)
  • Description of contributions highlighting
    • Degree of innovation (idea excellence, inventive step)
    • Market potential (feasibility/applicability, R&D collaborations, technology transfer, patents, licence, spin-offs ad other related contracts)
    • Invited talks and presentations or publications at conference (if applicable)

Nominations for the award are judged by the FEMS Awards Selection Committee and ratified by the FEMS Board.

Available on odd years only.

The winner will receive a medal and a fee waiver to attend FEMS EUROMAT and also featured in an interview on the FEMS website.

2023
Not awarded
2021
Prof Elvira Fortunato
2019
Prof María Vallet-Regí, Madrid, E

2017
Dr Thierry Chartier, Limoges, FR

2015
Prof Leigh Canham, Malvern, UK
2013
Prof Johan Martens, Leuven, BE
2011
Prof Michael Graetzel, Lausanne, CH
2009
Prof Derek J Fray, Cambridge, UK