As part of its commitment to science in the service of animal welfare and encouraging the next generation of animal welfare scientists, the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW) is seeking nominations for two of its prestigious awards to be made in 2021.

Animal welfare science plays a fundamental and important role in the advancement of our knowledge and understanding of animals’ needs and how best to meet them.  The UFAW Medal for Outstanding Contributions to Animal Welfare Science recognises the exceptional achievements of an individual scientist who has made a major contribution to the advancement of animal welfare.  It is open to individuals whose research, teaching, service or advocacy has significantly benefited the welfare of animals.  Nominated candidates may be based anywhere in the world.  The winner of the award will receive a cheque for £1,000, a commemorative medal and framed award certificate.

Previous winners of the UFAW Medal include Professors Dan Weary of the University of British Columbia, Canada; Sandra Edwards, School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, at Newcastle University, UK; Paul Hemsworth of the University of Melbourne, Australia; Georgia Mason of the Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Guelph, Canada and Paul Flecknell, Professor of Laboratory Animal Science & Director of Comparative Biology Centre at Newcastle University, UK. 

The Early Career Researcher of the Year (formerly known as the Young Animal Welfare Scientist of the Year) is a prize that recognises the achievements of a young scientist who has made significant contributions to improving the welfare of animals.  This award is open to students anywhere in the world currently studying for a doctoral degree and to post-doctoral scientists who are within six years of completing their PhD work. The winner of this award will receive a cheque for £1,000 and a framed award certificate.

Nominations for either award may be made on behalf of an individual or a candidate may nominate themselves. Nominees must be aware that they are being nominated for an award. Further information and nomination forms for either award can be found on the website www.ufaw.org.uk/grants-and-awards or by emailing goodwin@ufaw.org.uk.  The closing date for completed nominations is Friday 4^th December 2020. 

-ENDS-