January 1, 2026
November 20, 2025
$10,000 USD
Since 1824, The Franklin Institute of Philadelphia has honored the legacy of Benjamin Franklin by presenting awards for outstanding achievements in science, engineering, and industry. As the oldest comprehensive science and technology awards program in the United States, The Franklin Institute Awards Program has recognized more than 2,000 of the most pioneering scientists, engineers, inventors, and innovators from across the globe. Its history documents the course of human discovery and advancement through the past two centuries—from the diesel engine to the Mars rover, from the typewriter to the cell phone, and from x-ray technology to genome editing.
Nominations are accepted at any time throughout the year.
This is an international competition for living individuals whose work has had a significant impact on the aforementioned fields of science and engineering and is not restricted by specific theme or topic. Recipients must participate in the Awards Ceremony at which their medals are presented. Medalists are also expected to participate in additional educational and social events during Awards Week. The subject of the candidate's research must be an invention, discovery, technological development, or a body of work reflecting extraordinary insight, skill, or creativity. The work must have scientific value and/or proven utility. It must have provided significant direction for future research, solved an important problem, or provided great benefit to the public.
1 award – but can be shared with up to 3 individuals.
14-karat gold medals honoraria per medal