Awardees

Sundial Awards

Science advances through people who ask meaningful questions, support others, and create opportunities for the next generation. Sundial Initiative’s awards recognize emerging scientists whose leadership, mentorship, and service strengthen the scientific community.

Sundial NextBioLeader Award for Leadership

Sundial NextBioLeader Award for Leadership recognizes individuals who bring people together and create opportunities for others to grow. It celebrates leadership expressed through service, encouragement, and the sustained work of building an inclusive scientific community.

2026 recipient: Alena Smith — University of Southern California (Award music: Golden hour girl)

Sundial NextBioLeader Award for Mentorship

Sundial NextBioLeader Award for Mentorship recognizes individuals who generously share their time, knowledge, and experience to help others move forward. It celebrates mentors who believe in people’s potential, offer thoughtful guidance, and help aspiring scientists find confidence and direction.

2026 recipient: Max Hauptschein — Harvard Medical School (Award music: You are the light)

Sundial Immortal Dragons Award 

Sundial Immortal Dragons Award supports promising scientists as they begin their doctoral training and develop into future research leaders. Through research resources, mentorship, and community, the award invests in individuals who will advance scientific knowledge and use the opportunities they receive to create opportunities for others.

2026 recipient: Zaki Alaoui — Yale University (Award music: Hey Zaki)

Together, these awards reflect Sundial Initiative’s belief that investing in people can create a lasting impact through science, mentorship, and service.