Prestigious awards are an opportunity for University of Waterloo researchers to be recognized and rewarded by external organizations for the value of their research.
The Waterloo Awards Committee promotes and facilitates the submission of high-quality nominations of Waterloo scholars across all disciplines for prestigious awards and honorific titles.
The list below provides detail categorized by discipline with further detail about eligibility requirements, etc.
Please note that deadlines or anticipated deadlines change often so check the website for the organization that is presenting the award regularly to be sure of the deadline.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Awards
Upcoming Deadlines
All dates and links are anticipated but may change between now and the final deadline. Please note that many sponsors do not update their websites until 2-3 months before the deadline date. Always double-check sponsor websites before committing to a nomination.
Watch for updates on deadlines for awards in the following categories:
Recent presentations
NSERC McDonald Fellowships information session (September 8, 2023)
Request President's Letter for Prestigious Awards
If you require a letter from the President as part of an application for a prestigious award, please complete the form.
Learn more about Pivot-RP, a new searchable funding programs database, and how you can start searching for funding opportunities, access training videos, and more.
Global Excellence Initiative (GEI)
Launched in 2012 by former Governor General of Canada David Johnston, GEI promotes the recognition of Canadian research talent on the international stage by identifying and offering assistance to meritorious candidates for prestigious national and international awards.
Recent Awards Stories

August 28, 2023 - Professor awarded prestigious award for women in STEM

September 12, 2023 - Royal Society of Canada presents Waterloo researcher with a prestigious award

September 5, 2023 - Royal Society of Canada honours Waterloo researchers