The European Society of Biochemical Engineering Sciences (ESBES) invites applications for the Malcolm Lilly Award 2026, recognising promising young scientists and engineers and outstanding achievements in biochemical engineering.

In commemoration of Professor Malcolm Lilly, one of the pioneers of biochemical engineering, the award encourages the next generation of researchers and highlights excellent PhD research and scientific publications by PhD students and early-career researchers.

Who Can Apply?

• PhD students in biochemical engineering or closely related fields
• Postdoctoral and other early-career researchers
• Researchers presenting outstanding PhD research or scientific work with a clear contribution to biochemical engineering

Application Requirements

Please submit:

• a one-page abstract describing the research, originality, scientific contribution and relevance to biochemical engineering;
• a Curriculum Vitae (CV);
• supporting letters or letters of recommendation, if available.

Send applications by email to:

Application deadline:
30 October 2026

Selection and Award (2500,- €)

Applications will be evaluated by an ESBES Award Jury, with particular attention to scientific excellence, originality and potential impact. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to present their work in a dedicated Malcolm Lilly Award Session during the ESBES Symposium 2026 in Delft. Following the presentations, the jury will select the award recipient, who will be officially announced and honoured during the symposium.

About the Award

Professor Malcolm Lilly was one of the pioneers of modern biochemical engineering and played an important role in establishing the field as an independent scientific and engineering discipline. ESBES established the Malcolm Lilly Award in his memory to encourage and recognise the next generation of scientists and engineers.