The Royal Society Armourers & Brasiers' Company Prize is awarded for excellence in basic research in functional or structural materials where the research is clearly motivated by use of these materials. The concept of 'use-inspired basic research' describes research seeking fundamental understanding that is motivated or inspired by considerations of practical use. The award consists of a commemorative medal and a cash prize of £2,000.
The prize is administered by The Royal Society and applications are now invited for the 2026 prize. The closing date for nominations is 20 February 2026. More information about the criteria for the prize, the nomination process and previous winners is available here.
In 2024 the prize was awarded to Dame Molly Stevens DBE FREng FRS for pioneering nanomaterials for ultrasensitive disease diagnostics and advanced therapeutic delivery, for the benefit of individuals and society at a global level.