2026 Merck Next Gen Leaders in Chemistry
The Merck Next Gen Leaders in Chemistry recognizes graduate students and post-doctoral fellows for their outstanding contributions to the broader chemistry community through chemical research, advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion in chemistry, and their potential to be scientific pioneers and innovators in the field.
Awardees will receive:
- Merck mentors and opportunities to network with other winners and Merck scientists
- Invitations to career development sessions throughout the year
- Travel and accommodation for the 2026 Award Symposium, hosted at the Merck Rahway, New Jersey site
- The opportunity to present their research at the 2026 Award Symposium
Eligibility:
- Fourth year graduate students (minimum) or postdocs doing research in chemistry, including but not limited to organic, inorganic, medicinal, analytical, chemical biology, chemical engineering, computational, or physical chemistry at a US-based institution (The award is not available to those currently outside of the United States). Open to US and non-US citizens.
Application Documents:
- Resume/CV
- Personal Statement: Please provide a 1-page statement describing how you have shown resiliency overcoming obstacles in your personal and academic journey, how this program will impact your future as a leader in chemistry, and how you support opportunities for others through outreach, mentorship, and/or community initiatives.
- Research Statement: Please provide a summary of your research achievements thus far (maximum two pages, no smaller than 12 pt font, no less than 1″ margins)
Program Dates (subject to change):
- Application submission deadline: January 30th, 2026
- Recommendation Letter submission deadline: February 6th, 2026
- Recommendation letters will be submitted separately after the application is submitted. Letter writers will be notified via the email address you provide on how to submit their letters.
- Notification of acceptance: March 2026
- Symposium Date: Fall 2026
Contact us at nextgenleaders@merck.com
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