The Ministry of Science and ICT has launched the first selection process for 'Leader-level National Scientists and Engineers.'
On the 11th, the Ministry announced the '2026 National Scientist Support Program.' The National Scientists and Engineers system designates outstanding scientists and engineers as National Scientists and Engineers to honor them as national core assets.
The first batch of 'Leader-level National Scientists and Engineers' to be selected this year targets researchers aged 55 or younger who hold Korean nationality and are conducting research and technological innovation activities within the country across academia, industry, and government sectors.
Candidates may apply through recommendations from their affiliated institutions. Each institution may recommend up to three candidates after conducting its own selection criteria and screening process.
Applications are also possible via recommendations from at least three internationally renowned scholars or through the data-based discovery committee. Candidates recommended by international scholars or the data-based discovery committee are not included in the per-institution recommendation quota. All applications must be submitted through the Cross-Ministry Integrated Research Support System (IRIS), with the application period running from September 21 to October 12.
The selection process will proceed in two stages: 'field-specific review' and 'final review.' Evaluations will comprehensively assess achievements and impact, the potential to achieve world-class excellence through National Scientists and Engineers support, and contributions to the nation, economy, and society. The process will consider research characteristics specific to each affiliated institution (universities, government-funded research institutes, industry) and aim for balance across academic fields based on the 16th version of the National Science and Technology Standard Classification.
Leader-level National Scientists and Engineers will be awarded the title of National Scientist or Engineer and a certificate issued in the name of the President. They will receive an annual support fund of 100 million won, along with honors such as invitations to major national science and technology events as special guests, fast-track entry and exit procedures, and other privileges. Additionally, they will participate in formulating major national science and technology policies and R&D (research and development) strategies.
The Ministry of Science and ICT plans to hold a related program briefing session on the 16th at the Royal Hotel Seoul in Myeong-dong, Seoul, targeting researchers and research institutions.
in TECH
