The Federal Office for the Safety of Nuclear Waste Management (BASE) invites recent graduates and early-career researchers from all disciplines to apply for the Young Scientist Award 2027. The award recognizes innovative research that contributes to the long-term safety of nuclear waste management across the natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and the humanities. Eligible applicants include Master's and PhD graduates (including graduates with German “Diplom” or “Magister” degrees) who successfully defended their thesis after 30 April 2025. All entries will be evaluated by the Scientific Committee of safeND2027.

You can submit your application for the award from 31 August 2026 to 31 January 2027. A list of the members of the Scientific Committee can be found on our website.

Two winners will each receive a €1,000 cash prize and a travel grant to attend safe^ND 2027 in Berlin, taking place from 6 to 8 October 2027. The travel grant covers the conference ticket, travel, and accommodation. In addition, the winners will have the opportunity to present their research at the conference, providing valuable professional exposure.