Rutherford Medal
For preeminent research, scholarship or innovation in any field, or fields, of engineering, humanities, mathematics, sciences, social sciences, or technology.
Award details
Disciplines: Biological and environmental sciences; health and medical sciences; humanities; physical, earth and mathematical sciences; social and behavioural sciences; or technology, applied sciences and engineering
Award offered: Yearly
Eligibility: for researchers based in New Zealand
Prize: Medal and prize money of $100,000 NZD
The Rutherford Medal is a prestigious award instituted by Royal Society Te Apārangi, with the support of the Government, to recognise preeminent research, scholarship or innovation.
In addition, exceptional contributions may be taken into account to the promotion, encouragement and improvement of public awareness, knowledge and understanding of research; education; and the management of societies and institutions.
Please note that this medal is open to team nominations as well as individual nominations.
Current status
The 2025 round is now closed. Nominations for 2026 will open in January 2026.
To make a nomination, please contact academy@royalsociety.org.nz and a URL will be sent to you to access the nomination web portal.