Nominate your candidates for the Johann Wolfgang Döbereiner Doctoral Prize!
The German Catalysis Society invites nominations for the Johann Wolfgang Döbereiner Doctoral Prize 2026 to support early-career scientists in the field of catalysis. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional contributions made by early-career researchers during their doctoral studies at German universities or research institutions.
Special emphasis will be placed on the originality of the research, the quality of the doctoral thesis, and the advancements made in technical and scientific areas. At the time of application, the doctoral degree must be completed, with the date of the viva being the determining factor. Generally, the degree should not have been completed more than one year prior to the cut-off date (30.09.2025).
The prize is endowed with 1,000 euros and is generously sponsored by Heraeus Precious Metals GmbH & Co. KG.
The prize will be awarded at the 59. Jahrestreffen Deutscher Katalytiker in March 2026 in Weimar, Germany.
Nominations for the Johann Wolfgang Döbereiner Doctoral Prize 2026 can be submitted until 14 September 2025 at the latest. Please note that self-nominations will not be accepted.
Click here to go to the submission page.
All nominations should be submitted in German or English together with a statement explaining the reasons for the nomination and the following documents:
- Doctoral thesis/dissertation (PDF)
- Abstract of the doctoral thesis
- Curriculum Vitae
- Two letters of recommendation are required from recognized experts in the field of catalysis. Both referees must hold a doctorate, and at least one of the letters must be provided by someone unaffiliated with the nominee's current working group.
Here you can find the official guidelines.
As part of the award ceremony, the DECHEMA will cover the conference fee, travel expenses within Germany (2nd class rail travel), and one night's accommodation for the prize winner.
For further information, please contact Dr. Lilla Nikl.