French Academy of Sciences - French-Taiwanese Scientific Foundation Award

France-Taïwan Scientific Grand Prize

Two prize winners share 40,000 EUR in prize money, meaning that each researcher receives 20,000 euros. The prize honours a pair of researchers – one based in France and one in Taiwan – for joint scientific work they have already carried out together. In addition to the prize money, the laureates may apply each year for a travel grant from Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) to visit their co-laureate’s team and continue their collaboration. The prize is awarded jointly by the French Academy of Sciences (Académie des sciences) and the NSTC. The award is presented during a formal ceremony at the Institut de France in Paris.

Who can apply

• Who applies: A team comprising two active researchers who are applying jointly. One must be employed at a French research institution, the other at a Taiwanese one.
• Existing collaboration: They are already working together and can demonstrate this through joint research activities and findings, such as joint publications.
• Field of study: Open to all fields of research.
• References: You should include 1 alongside the 2 letters of support from recognised academics in your field.
• Nationality and age: There are no restrictions regarding nationality, age or career background.
• Who cannot apply: Members of the French Academy of Sciences or the Academia Sinica (Taiwan).

How to apply

Both researchers complete a joint application form. The French partner sends it as a single PDF file by email to the Academy of Sciences. The Taiwanese partner submits it via the NSTC’s online system. The deadline is 8 June 2026, and letters of support must be received by this date. A panel comprising an equal number of scientists from both countries will then select the winners.

How realistic are your chances?

It is a single, prestigious award presented annually to a Franco-Taiwanese duo, so the competition is extremely tough. However, the target group is narrowly defined: an established, demonstrable collaboration between the two countries is required, which excludes most researchers. If you can already demonstrate joint publications and research findings with a partner from the other side, and can also provide compelling letters of recommendation, you are exactly the sort of team this award is intended for.