The Blavatnik Family Foundation and The New York Academy of Sciences today named 18 finalists for the 2026 Blavatnik National Awards for Young Scientists. The list included David E. Olson, director of the Institute for Psychedelics and Neurotherapeutics and a professor of chemistry, and biochemistry and molecular medicine at UC Davis.
The Blavatnik National Awards for Young Scientists recognize scientific advances made by researchers in the United States across the following disciplines: life sciences, chemical sciences, and physical sciences & engineering.
Olson was recognized for his work revealing how psychedelics promote neuroplasticity and for engineering non-hallucinogenic analogues that could lead to safer treatments for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions.
“The discoveries of the scientists we honor today remind us that investing in outstanding early career researchers is essential to advance scientific progress, fuel innovation, and help ensure a better future for all people,” said Len Blavatnik, founder of Access Industries and head of the Blavatnik Family Foundation.
This year's finalists were selected by an independent jury of distinguished scientists. In total, 372 young scientists were nominated, representing 187 academic and research institutions across 43 states and the District of Columbia.
The 2026 Blavatnik National Awards Laureates will be announced on October 6, 2026, during the Blavatnik Awards ceremony at the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
Each laureate will receive a prize of $250,000 — the largest unrestricted scientific award available to early-career scientists in the United States. The remaining 15 finalists will each receive $15,000 in recognition of their outstanding achievements.
“Scientific progress depends on bold ideas, rigorous inquiry, and the courage to explore the unknown. The 2026 Blavatnik National Awards Finalists embody these qualities through research that is redefining fields as diverse as chemistry, biology, engineering, artificial intelligence, and astrophysics," said Nicholas B. Dirks, president and CEO of The New York Academy of Sciences and chair of the Awards’ Scientific Advisory Council. "Their work not only deepens our understanding of the natural world but also lays the foundation for breakthroughs that will improve human health, strengthen our technological future, and enhance our stewardship of the planet.”
About the Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists
The Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists recognize exceptional early-career scientists and engineers whose discoveries are driving the next generation of scientific innovation. Established by the Blavatnik Family Foundation in 2007 and independently administered by The New York Academy of Sciences, the Awards are the largest unrestricted prizes available to young scientists. The program now spans the United States, the United Kingdom, and Israel, awarding more than $2 million annually. Since its inception, the Awards have recognized more than 500 honorees with over $20 million in unrestricted funding. To follow the progress of the Blavatnik Awards, please visit blavatnikawards.org or follow us on Facebook and X.
About the Blavatnik Family Foundation
The Blavatnik Family Foundation provides many of the world’s best researchers, scientists and future leaders with the support and funding needed to solve humankind’s greatest challenges. Led by Len Blavatnik, founder of Access Industries, the Foundation advances and promotes innovation, discovery and creativity to benefit the whole of society. To date, the Foundation has contributed over $1.5 billion to more than 250 organizations. See more at blavatnikfoundation.org.
About The New York Academy of Sciences
The New York Academy of Sciences is an independent, not-for-profit organization that since 1817 has been committed to advancing science for the benefit of society. With more than 15,000 members in 100 countries, the Academy advances scientific and technical knowledge, addresses global challenges with science-based solutions, and sponsors a wide variety of educational initiatives at all levels for STEM and STEM-related fields. The Academy hosts programs and publishes content in the life and physical sciences, the social sciences, artificial intelligence, computer science, and sustainability. The Academy also provides professional and educational resources for researchers across all phases of their careers. Please visit us online at nyas.org.
Learn more about the awards and other finalists.
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