Call for Applications: King Salman International Award for Disability Research 2026 (Win $133,000 cash prize)

A major focus in research is enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, highlighted by the King Salman International Award for Disability Research 2026. Supported by the Saudi Arabian government and the Research, Development and Innovation Authority, this prestigious award invites nominations and offers USD 133,000 per category.

It aims to honor those whose work in disability health care, education, rehabilitation, assistive technology, and universal access makes a significant impact. This initiative serves as a global call for scientific excellence in promoting inclusion and accessibility.

Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.

When is the Application Deadline:

• Not specified (applications open; check official award portal for updates).

Tell Me About The Award:

The King Salman International Award for Disability Research is a prestigious global recognition program that honors scientists, researchers, and institutions whose work has significantly advanced disability-related fields.

The award supports high-impact research across health, education, rehabilitation, technology, and universal access, aiming to improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities and promote inclusive excellence worldwide.

Check out these opportunities:

• The 2026 Yale Young African Scholars Program in the USA Application is Now Open!
• EGBIN POWERUP INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE 2026 (January – June)
• 2026 Allan and Nesta Ferguson Scholarships at the University of London for Low-income Countries Worldwide
• Nigerian Air Force Chief of the Air Staff Literary Competition 2026
• First Class Muslim FCM Foundation Undergraduate Learning Scholarship Support Programme (ULSP) for Muslim Students 2026

Award Branches:

1. Health and Medical Sciences
   • Early detection, diagnosis, intervention, rehabilitation, psychological support, and evidence-based treatment.
2. Educational and Psychological Sciences
   • Special education, curricula, pedagogy, counselling, educational psychology, and program design.
3. Rehabilitation and Social Sciences
   • Research on rehabilitation, employment, social inclusion, speech/hearing impairment, and community empowerment.
4. Technical Applications in Disability
   • Technology-driven solutions (AI, computer science, medical/educational equipment, diagnostic tools).
5. Universal Access
   • Research and initiatives promoting accessibility standards in built environments, services, and facilities.

Type:

International Research Award (multi-disciplinary).

Who can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be scientists, researchers, or entities with published work in refereed journals.
• Demonstrate authenticity, innovation, and measurable impact in disability research.
• Submit work that has not been awarded previously in similar prizes.
• Not be a previous winner within the last five years (unless submitting new work).
• Not be affiliated with the King Salman Center for Disability Research or award committees.

Eligible nominations may come from:

• Disability research centers (local, regional, international).
• Academic departments in universities.
• Institutions, organizations, and authorities concerned with disability.
• Previous winners (nominating others).
• Self-nomination (if regulations are met).
• Colleagues or peers nominating eligible researchers.

How are Applicants Selected?

• Based on originality, leadership, innovation, and impact of scientific production.
• Submissions must adhere to recognized scientific methods.
• Evaluation considers journal impact factors, rankings, and contribution to disability research globally.

What is the Benefit of the Award?

• USD 133,000 cash prize per award branch.
• Certificate of appreciation.
• Commemorative medal honoring the winning contribution.
• Formal invitation to the award ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
• Global visibility for research contributions improving disability services, accessibility, and inclusion.

How Long Will the Award Last?

• One-time recognition per cycle (renewable eligibility after 5 years with new work).

Required Documents:

• List of published scientific studies (reverse-chronological order, with journal impact factor/ranking).
• List of books (authored, edited, translated).
• List of professional/community contributions in disability.
• Essay (max 500 words) on national/global impact of research.
• Letter of support (from institution or colleague).
• Completed nomination form (via award portal).

How to Apply:

1. Prepare required documents (CV, publications, essay, support letter).
2. Fill out the nomination form for the relevant branch.
3. Submit via the official award portal: King Salman International Award for Disability Research
4. For inquiries, email: award@ksadr.org.sa.

👉 Visit the Award Webpage for Details