The Letten Prize – vision and history

In 2018 The Letten Foundation and the Young Academy of Norway joined forces to establish the 2 million NOK Letten Prize for young researchers.

Research is paramount for solving global challenges. Yet the role of research and the researchers behind changemaking discoveries often remain hidden. Celebrating young researchers’ commitment towards solving global human development challenges, the Letten Prize aims to change this.

A generous prize

The Letten Prize of 2 million NOK will be awarded every other year to a young researcher under the age of 45 who conducts research aimed at solving global challenges within the fields of health, development, environment and equality in all aspects of human life. Aimed at reaching a global audience and funding research of great societal relevance, researchers within all disciplines are encouraged apply for the prize.

A partnership since 2018

Since Professor Letten F. Saugstad (1925-2014) founded the Letten Foundation in 1986, the foundation has funded research in Norway and abroad. According to the Letten Foundation’s board members, Professors Borghild Roald and Sidsel Roalkvam, the prize marks a new era for the foundation. In the years to come, efforts will be concentrated on building up the prize. Both are delighted to have joined forces with the vibrant Young Academy of Norway in establishing the prize.

The Young Academy of Norway is equally excited about the new partnership:

‘For us as a young organization, the prize represents a unique opportunity to celebrate both researchers and research: The prize celebrates the commitment of excellent young researchers and will no doubt make a big difference for the winners in the years to come. At the same time, the prize also serves as a platform wherein we hope to increase the public awareness and inform debate on how research can be used to solve global challenges.’

Dr. Magnus Aronsen, Chair of the Young Academy of Norway (2017-2018)

For more information

Keep up to date by following the Letten Prize and the Young Academy of Norway on social media: @lettenprize (FB), @lettenprize (twitter) and @akademietforyngreforskere (FB) @yngreforskere (twitter).