#Japan #Tokyo #Sony Women Award #Nature Portfolio #Women in Tech

2026 Sony Women in Technology Award Opens for Applications

The Sony Group Corporation, in collaboration with Nature, has officially announced the commencement of the application period for the prestigious 2026 Sony Women in Technology Award. This award aims to celebrate and support the groundbreaking research conducted by early to mid-career women in the fields of technology, including science, engineering, and mathematics. It plays a crucial role in recognizing the contributions of female researchers who are making significant strides for society and the environment.

Award Details

Starting from March 6, 2025, until May 30, 2025, women researchers are invited to submit their applications. The winners, expected to be unveiled in early 2026, will each receive a remarkable prize of $250,000. This financial support is aimed at accelerating their research and furthering their impactful work in their respective fields. Additionally, the award provides an unparalleled opportunity for recipients to showcase their achievements on the renowned platform, Nature.com, thereby elevating their visibility within the global research community.

The evaluation of applications will be carried out by an esteemed panel of judges comprising leading technologists, scientists, and experts from various spheres, including Magdalena Skipper, the Editor-in-Chief of Nature, and Hiroaki Kitano, the CTO of Sony Group Corporation. Every application will be extensively assessed based on criteria such as ambition, innovation, conceptual brilliance, societal impact, and significance.

A Voice of Encouragement

Hiroaki Kitano remarked on the importance of this initiative, expressing excitement about the caliber of applicants and emphasizing the transformative nature of their research. "Earlier this year, we were honored to recognize the inaugural finalists and winners of the Sony Women in Technology Award with Nature, each of whom is pioneering fascinating, multidisciplinary research that will have real-world impact outside of the lab. I am optimistic that this year's cohort of applicants will also embody excellence and help expand this growing community of researchers across the globe."

Dr. Skipper echoed these sentiments by underlining Nature's commitment to providing a platform for female researchers. She stated, "At Nature, we want to ensure that extraordinary technological breakthroughs receive the recognition they deserve throughout the global research community. In partnering with Sony, we are jointly creating a high-caliber platform for rewarding and raising awareness of vital technological achievements from women researchers. The world needs their research and inventions."

Eligibility Criteria

The award is open to female applicants engaged in research and development in the realm of technology. Researchers affiliated with universities, research institutions, or spinoff companies are strongly encouraged to apply. Adherence to the award's eligibility criteria is essential; further details are available on the award's official site.

About Sony Group Corporation

Sony Group Corporation is not just a leader in entertainment, but a trailblazer in the technology domain, integrating creativity with innovation. The organization comprises six key business segments: Game & Network Services, Music, Pictures, Entertainment, Technology & Services, Imaging & Sensing Solutions, and Financial Services. With a commitment to enriching lives and experiences, Sony continuously strives to bring forth creativity and cutting-edge technology.

Nature Portfolio

Nature Portfolio is synonymous with high-quality scientific journals and services, driving progress in the life, physical, chemical, and applied sciences. It encompasses Nature, an esteemed journal founded in 1869, and several other leading journals renowned for publishing significant scientific findings worldwide. Nature Portfolio is firmly dedicated to advancing science and societal welfare.

For more information regarding the 2026 Sony Women in Technology Award, visit the official award site and be sure to mark your calendar for the application period starting March 6, 2025.