The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry is inviting proposals to identify the latest emerging technologies in chemistry.
Results will be announced later this year.
This initiative began in 2018 in recognition of IUPAC’s Centenary the following year.
While it was created with the anniversary in mind, the end goal was to showcase the value of chemistry and chemists and to inform the general public as to how chemical sciences contribute to society and sustainability.
The most recent finalists were announced in October 2025 and detailed in the autumn issue of Chemistry International (CI). The finalists for previous years are summarised here.
The call for 2026 proposals is now open – more than one proposal can be submitted – and nominations are open to both the global science community and the general public.
Deadline for nominations is 30 April. Nominate here.
What is an “Emerging Technology?”
An “Emerging Technology” is defined as being between a new scientific discovery and a fully commercialised technology.
It should involve a solid understanding of the technology, some type of prototype, or even better some start-ups working to commercialise the technology.
But most importantly, the technology needs to be exciting, have the capacity to open new opportunities in chemistry and beyond, and crucially, help to solve major global problems – the focus of IUPAC’s vision and mission.
The term “chemistry” is used in its broadest sense, including material science, nanotechnology, and biochemistry.
This initiative is to help to raise chemistry’s profile and reinforce its essential role in the advancement of science and technology.
