The International Center for Research on Women (ICRW) has officially opened applications and nominations for two of its most prestigious global awards: the Paula Kantor Award and the Mariam K. Chamberlain Dissertation Award.
These awards recognize and support outstanding researchers and scholars dedicated to advancing gender equality, social inclusion, and women’s empowerment worldwide. Together, they form a powerful platform to celebrate impactful research, foster academic excellence, and strengthen global efforts toward equity and social justice.
About ICRW and Its Global Mission
ICRW is a leading international research organization committed to building evidence-based solutions that improve the lives of women and girls. Through rigorous research and policy engagement, ICRW addresses critical global issues such as:
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Gender inequality
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Economic empowerment
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Health and reproductive rights
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Climate change and social inclusion
The Paula Kantor and Mariam K. Chamberlain Awards reflect ICRW’s long-standing commitment to supporting researchers who are driving meaningful change in these areas.
The Paula Kantor Award 2026
Honoring a Legacy of Impactful Gender Research
The Paula Kantor Award was established in 2015 in memory of Dr. Paula Kantor, a leading expert in gender and development who dedicated her career to improving the lives of women in low- and middle-income countries.
Her work spanned Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, focusing on integrating gender into agriculture and rural development. This award continues her legacy by recognizing young women researchers who are making significant contributions to gender-focused field research.
Award Value and Recognition
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Cash Prize: $2,500
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Recognition as a leading young researcher in gender and development
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Global visibility through ICRW platforms
Deadline
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Nomination Deadline: April 10, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
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Be women under the age of 40
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Be citizens of low- or middle-income countries
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Conduct research in low-income or marginalized communities
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Focus on gender equity and women’s empowerment
The research must:
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Contribute to closing evidence gaps in gender and development
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Use robust methodologies (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed)
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Be published or shared through reports, journals, or other platforms
Note: Research conducted as part of a degree requirement is not eligible.
Nomination Process
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Candidates must be nominated by a third party
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Submission must include:
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Completed nomination form
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Questionnaire
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CV and biography
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Applications must clearly demonstrate the impact and relevance of the nominee’s work
Selection Criteria
The selection committee evaluates:
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Research methodology and ethical standards
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Innovation and sustainability of the research
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Strength of gender-focused analysis
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Impact and real-world relevance
For more information click here
The Mariam K. Chamberlain Dissertation Award 2026
Supporting the Next Generation of Gender Scholars
Named after Dr. Mariam K. Chamberlain, a pioneer in feminist research and academic development, this award supports doctoral students working on dissertations related to gender equity and social justice.
Dr. Chamberlain played a crucial role in advancing women’s studies globally and building institutional support for gender research.
Award Value
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Total Award: $10,000
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$8,500 for the Ph.D. student
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$1,500 for the dissertation advisor
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The funding supports research, education costs, and travel related to the dissertation.
Deadline
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Application Deadline: April 17, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
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Be first-generation doctoral students
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Be enrolled in a U.S.-based accredited institution
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Be pursuing a Ph.D. (ABD status expected)
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Have a dissertation aligned with ICRW’s mission
Eligible applicants include:
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U.S. citizens
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Permanent residents
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Non-citizens (if enrolled in a U.S. institution)
Preference is given to applicants who identify as women.
Research Focus Areas
Dissertations must address topics such as:
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Gender and climate change
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Economic empowerment
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Health and reproductive rights
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Social inclusion and gender norms
Award Expectations
Recipients are expected to:
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Continue working on their dissertation with advisor support
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Present their research at an ICRW event
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Maintain strong academic standing
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
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Originality and relevance of research
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Alignment with gender equity and social inclusion goals
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Academic excellence
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Potential for real-world impact
Why These Awards Matter
The Paula Kantor and Mariam K. Chamberlain Awards go beyond financial support. They:
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Recognize impactful research addressing global inequalities
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Empower women and emerging scholars
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Strengthen evidence-based policymaking
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Foster a global network of changemakers
These awards are ideal for researchers committed to advancing gender equality and improving lives through data-driven insights and policy-relevant research.
For more information click here
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