New prize for science and innovation
A new sign of the strength of South Westphalia as a science location: with immediate effect, the Christa-und-Dieter-Lange-Stiftung, the Siegen Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Sparkasse Siegen and the University of Siegen are recognizing outstanding scientific achievements and innovations that are particularly linked to the city of Siegen and the South Westphalia region and have a measurable impact here. The Siegen Science and Innovation Award is endowed with prize money of 40,000 euros and will be awarded for the first time in 2026.
"With the Siegen Science and Innovation Award, we are sending out a strong joint signal for the importance of research and innovation in our region," says Prof. Dr. Stefanie Reese, Rector of the University of Siegen. "I am delighted that the Christa-und-Dieter-Lange-Stiftung, Sparkasse Siegen and IHK Siegen have joined forces with us to create this award. This commitment shows how deeply rooted the understanding of the value of science is in our region and demonstrates the potential that lies in the connection between university, business and society."
"Education and research are not only the basis for the region's future viability, but in their extraordinary combination they represent a real local strength," emphasizes Dr. Nadine Uebe-Emden, CEO of Sparkasse Siegen.
"Scientific excellence, innovation and well-trained specialists are key success factors for the competitiveness of our companies, especially in the highly industrial South Westphalia region," says Dr. Thilo Pahl, Managing Director of IHK Siegen.
"With the Siegen Science and Innovation Award, we want to honor people who not only gain scientific knowledge with their work, but also make a concrete contribution to the common good and the sustainable development of South Westphalia. Excellent research with a regional focus creates added value for society - be it in science, health or culture - and therefore deserves special visibility and appreciation," explains Prof. Dr. Volker Stein, member of the board of the Christa-und-Dieter-Lange-Stiftung.
Prizes are awarded for work that deals with regionally significant topics, contributes to solving social challenges or strengthens the exchange between science, business and society in the region. Special consideration is given to projects with an interdisciplinary approach, innovative methods and outstanding science communication. The scientific quality of the work submitted, its originality and innovative content as well as its relevance for the South Westphalia region are decisive for the awarding of the prize.
Both individual researchers and research teams can be nominated for the prize. Nominations can be submitted by members of all universities in the South Westphalia region as well as by members of the public. The deadline is June 15, 2026.
A jury of representatives from the participating institutions and other experts will decide on the award. The award ceremony will take place during the University of Siegen's annual reception. The Siegen Science and Innovation Prize will be awarded every two years in future.
