Oral health is far more than healthy teeth and a confident smile. It influences nutrition, communication, overall well-being, and even the prevention of chronic diseases. Yet despite its profound impact on public health, dental research has often received less international recognition than other areas of medicine.
To address this gap, the NSK Nakanishi Foundation has launched the NSK Blue Prize—a prestigious international academic award dedicated to honoring researchers whose work is advancing dental medicine and oral healthcare on a global scale.
With an annual prize of JPY 10 million for each recipient, the NSK Blue Prize aims to recognize pioneering research, inspire innovation, and highlight the essential role dental science plays in improving lives worldwide.
Research Areas Recognized
The Prize welcomes outstanding research across multiple disciplines within dental medicine and oral healthcare, including:
- Basic Science of Dentistry and Oral Health
- Clinical and Translational Research
- Technological Innovation in Dental Care
- Social and Global Health Impact
- Selection Philosophy
Recipients are selected based on a comprehensive evaluation that goes beyond academic achievements.
The Selection Committee considers:
- Scientific originality and excellence
- Long-term research achievements
- Contributions to dental medicine
- Positive impact on healthcare and society
- Potential to improve global health and quality of life
- International recognition
- High ethical standards and research integrity
The Foundation emphasizes that meaningful contributions to humanity are just as important as scientific excellence.
Award Benefits
Each year, three researchers will receive the NSK Blue Prize.
Each recipient receives:
- Prize money of JPY 10 million
- A commemorative plaque
- An official award certificate
- An invitation to Japan for the award ceremony
- An opportunity to present a commemorative lecture showcasing their research
The award ceremony serves as an international platform where leading researchers can share their discoveries with the global scientific community.
Who Can Apply?
The NSK Blue Prize follows a nomination-based selection process.
Researchers cannot nominate themselves. Every candidate must be officially nominated by a recognized academic or institutional leader.
Eligible nominators include:
- Representatives of academic societies
- University Presidents
- Deans and Graduate School Deans
- Hospital Directors
- Research Institute Directors
- Department Chairs
- Program Heads
- Other equivalent institutional authorities
This nomination system ensures that every candidate is recommended based on recognized academic excellence and professional achievements.
Nomination Period
The nomination period for the inaugural NSK Blue Prize is:
July 1, 2026 – December 20, 2026 (Japan Standard Time)
All nomination materials must be received before the deadline. Late submissions are not considered.
How to Submit a Nomination
The nomination process is designed to be clear and straightforward.
Step 1: Download the Official Nomination Form
Nominators must obtain the designated nomination form from the NSK Nakanishi Foundation’s official website.
Step 2: Complete the Nomination Form
The nominator should carefully complete every required section, providing accurate information regarding the nominee’s academic achievements, research contributions, and institutional affiliation.
The nomination form must include the official institutional or academic society seal, confirming its authenticity.
Step 3: Convert the Form to PDF
After completion, the nomination form should be saved as a PDF document to preserve formatting and ensure compatibility during submission.
Step 4: Submit by Email
The completed PDF nomination form must be submitted via email to the NSK Blue Prize Secretariat before the closing date.
The Foundation confirms that all nomination data will be managed appropriately and used solely for purposes related to the award program.
What Happens After Submission?
Once the nomination period closes, all eligible nominations undergo a thorough evaluation by the Foundation’s independent international Selection Committee.
The review process may include:
- Detailed examination of research achievements
- Requests for additional supporting documentation
- Clarification of submitted information
- Interviews or supplementary materials when necessary
To maintain fairness and confidentiality, the Foundation does not disclose information regarding the progress of individual nominations.
Announcement of Winners
Award recipients and their nominators will be notified in March 2027.
The names of the winners will also be published on the NSK Nakanishi Foundation’s official website following the announcement.
A Global Platform for Dental Innovation
The NSK Blue Prize represents more than an academic honor—it reflects a long-term commitment to advancing dental medicine for the benefit of society.
By recognizing researchers whose discoveries improve prevention, treatment, technology, and public health, the Foundation seeks to inspire the next generation of scientists while demonstrating the essential role oral healthcare plays in shaping healthier communities.
Reference
NSK Nakanishi Foundation has launched the NSK Blue Prize
