More than 50 finalists have been selected for the Overt STEM Awards 2026, recognising achievements in science, technology, engineering and mathematics across the Oxford–Cambridge Growth Corridor and beyond.
The shortlist brings together young people, independent researchers, university academics, educators and established businesses, reflecting the breadth of talent working across STEM disciplines.
Among the organisations represented are the universities of Cambridge and Oxford, Bayer, Atlassian Williams F1, HORIBA UK, Springer Nature and STEM Returners, alongside schools, smaller businesses and independent innovators.
The nominations span generations, with the youngest nominee aged just eight, while others have spent decades working in research, education and industry.
The awards recognise achievements in areas including artificial intelligence, scientific research, education, mentoring, women in STEM, diversity and inclusion, and partnerships between employers and educational institutions.
Judging has now been completed through an independent process involving multiple reviewers, bringing different professional perspectives to the assessment of nominations.
The Overt STEM Awards are organised through Events Together Ltd, with the aim of recognising achievements and encouraging closer connections between industry, education, academia and the wider community.
Meena Chander, founder of Overt STEM and Events Together Ltd, said: “The fact that our youngest nominee is just eight years old says so much about the potential emerging across STEM.
“From children discovering what they are capable of to researchers pushing boundaries and educators opening doors for others, these nominations tell a story about the future we are building together.”
The awards place particular emphasis on recognising contributions from people at different stages of their careers, including those developing future STEM talent through teaching, mentoring and collaboration.
Meena added: “But potential needs encouragement, opportunity and investment. I want businesses to stand alongside these nominees, celebrate their achievements and help us build a platform that can continue to recognise STEM talent for years to come.”
Winners will be announced at the Overt STEM Awards celebratory dinner at Unity Place in Milton Keynes on Tuesday 3 November, from 6pm to 11pm.
Further information is available at events-together.co.uk/awards-2026.
Pictured: Previous STEM award recipients. More than 50 finalists have been selected for the Overt STEM Awards 2026 in Milton Keynes.
