Felix Franks Biotechnology Medal
Recognising excellence in early career scientists in the application of chemical sciences to the study of any aspect of biotechnology.
Details
| Status | Opens |
|---|---|
| Nominations opening date | 17 November 2025 |
| Nominations closing date | 16 January 2026 |
| Career stage | Early career |
Awarded by the Biotechnology Group
The group aims to further the interests of both academic and industrial members of the RSC in the subject of biotechnology. It organises conferences and courses that to promote the advancement of knowledge in biotechnology, and facilitate networking of its practitioners.
Winners
Zhen Gu, University of California Los Angeles
For pioneering “programmed medications” that apply physiological signals-responsive materials/systems for precisely delivering therapeutics, especially for diabetes and cancer treatment.
About this prize
The award is in Commemoration of Cambridge University Professor, Felix Franks (1926-2016), a highly distinguished former Chairman of the Biotechnology Group, and is a result of the generosity of his family who have agreed to provide the medals.
The aim of this RSC Biotechnology Group award is to encourage and recognise excellence in early career scientists in the application of chemical sciences to the study of any aspect of Biotechnology.
The recipient of the award will be invited to present a lecture on their work at a meeting sponsored by the RSC Biotechnology Group, at which a certificate and the inscribed medal will be presented.
The award – made annually – is made for the most meritorious contributions to Chemical Biotechnology on the basis of published papers and/or other documentary evidence, including contributions to conferences, over the preceding 5 years. We encourage proposals both from industry and academia and accept supporting evidence from more than one person if the candidate has not been able to publish confidential work.
The award is open to all early career scientists, whether or not members of the Royal Society of Chemistry or the Biotechnology Group. The definition of an Early Career Scientist is normally someone who commenced their PhD less than 12 years before the closing date for nominations. Full details of the eligibility criteria can be found in the Information Sheet for Nominators.
The candidate’s agreement must first be obtained and the name of a second person willing to act as referee should be given.
- Download and complete the Felix Franks Biotechnology Medal nomination form
- Include supporting evidence
- Include a one-page CV of the candidate
Please send all your completed information by email when nominations open on Monday 17 November 2025.