Costa Rica’s Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT) has officially opened the application window for the prestigious “Clodomiro Picado Twight” National Science and Technology Awards. This 2026 edition marks a historic milestone, celebrating the 50th anniversary of an initiative dedicated to honoring the brilliant minds driving knowledge and innovation across the country.

Over the past half-century, this honor has been awarded to 57 exceptional scientists and technologists. Their groundbreaking work has revolutionized fields such as:

• Physics and Astrophysics
• Microbiology
• Engineering
• Agricultural Sciences

The legacy began with Guy de Téramond and Gabriel Macaya, who were the very first pioneers to receive this distinction. Fifty years later, MICITT continues to search for the next generation of visionary leaders.

The Award Categories

To commemorate this anniversary, the competition continues to recognize excellence across two distinct paths of professional achievements:

• National Science AwardDedicated to honoring the finest career path in the realm of pure or applied scientific research.
• National Technology AwardDesigned to recognize significant contributions to technological development, innovation, and knowledge transfer.

Are You Eligible? Technical Requirements

To maintain the high prestige of these awards, MICITT has established a strict technical eligibility profile. Applicants must be of Costa Rican nationality and fulfill the following criteria:

• 10 Years of Experience: Prove a minimum of ten years of verified research experience.
• Continuous Active Research: Have remained uninterruptedly active in research over the last five years within their specific category.
• Current Projects: Provide clear evidence of current participation in at least one ongoing research or extension project.
• Publication Track Record: Present a cumulative portfolio of at least ten research or extension products. Crucially, at least five must be articles published in highly prestigious, quality indexed journals (averaging one article per year over the last five years).

How to Apply: Guidelines and Deadlines

⏳ The Final Deadline: The reception period closes promptly on Monday, August 31, 2026.

The application process requires both digital and physical submissions:

1. The Digital Submission

Applicants must send their complete documentation via email to [email protected]. Your digital file must include:

• Completed data form
• Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Professional certifications
• Formal cover letter
• A professional career trajectory essay (maximum of 1,000 words)

2. The In-Person Procedure

As a complementary step, candidates must deliver a USB drive containing all digital files and present their original physical degrees at the Ministry’s offices. A prior appointment is mandatory. You can schedule yours by emailing [email protected] or calling 2539-2217.

Registration forms, the complete technical guide, and full contest regulations are readily available for download on the official MICITT website.

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