Nominate Next-Gen Scientists Driving AI and Biotech Innovation
The search is underway for outstanding young scientists whose cross-border research in artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology is addressing some of the Asia-Pacific’s most pressing social and environmental challenges.
Nominations are now open for the 2025 APEC Science Prize for Innovation, Research and Education, or ASPIRE, under the theme “Toward AI-Bio Convergence: AI-based Inclusive Biotechnology Solving Social Challenges.” In line with APEC 2025’s focus on digital innovation and inclusive growth, this year’s theme highlights the potential of AI-powered biotechnology to improve health equity, food security, sustainable agriculture and environmental resilience across the region.
“This year’s ASPIRE theme reflects the growing need for policy-relevant science that bridges disciplines and borders,” said Rahima Kandahari, Chair of the APEC Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation (PPSTI).
“By highlighting the convergence of AI and biotechnology, we aim to draw attention to innovations that can deliver practical, inclusive solutions to complex regional challenges, and also reinforces the importance of scientific cooperation and innovation in advancing shared APEC goals.”
Each APEC economy may nominate one scientist under the age of 40 for the annual prize. Nominees will be evaluated for their excellence in scientific research, evidenced by scholarly publications, and their dedication to cross-economy collaboration, particularly on interdisciplinary projects aligned with the year’s theme.
“Korea places great importance on empowering young researchers to develop innovative solutions to address complex global challenges. That is why we are proud to support this year’s ASPIRE, which recognizes excellence in cross-border, interdisciplinary science,” said Sunghoon Hwang, Director General of the Ministry of Science and ICT of the Republic of Korea.
“AI-bio convergence is a key emerging technology with the potential to transform how economies address longstanding issues such as aging populations, health inequities and sustainable agriculture,” Hwang added.
Now in its 15th year, the prize supports APEC’s broader goals of enhancing science and technology cooperation, strengthening innovation ecosystems, and promoting sustainable and inclusive growth. Past winners have contributed to advancements in fields such as nutrition, renewable energy, nanotechnology, and public health.
Recent awardees include Dr Zheng Liu of Singapore, who won the 2023 ASPIRE for his pioneering work on two-dimensional materials for sustainable energy and advanced electronics; and Dr Jingzheng Ren of Hong Kong, China, who received the 2022 prize for developing new models that balance economic development with environmental sustainability. Both exemplify the power of cross-border scientific collaboration to solve regional and global challenges.
The winner of this year's prize will receive USD 25,000, with prize funding provided by the Ministry of Science and ICT of the Republic of Korea, and will be recognized during the upcoming meeting in Korea on 13 August 2025.
Nominations must be submitted by 1 July 2025 at 17:30 Singapore time. For eligibility requirements and submission guidelines, please visit the ASPIRE 2025 web page or contact your economy’s PPSTI representative.
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