About the GPA Prebiotic Young Researcher Award
The Global Prebiotic Association (GPA) Prebiotic Young Researcher Award is a prestigious recognition designed to celebrate the outstanding contributions of emerging scientific talent in the field of prebiotic research. This annual award highlights the groundbreaking work of young researchers (under 40 years old) who have authored research papers that advance our understanding of prebiotics and their role in improving health and performance through the microbiota.
Prebiotic research spans a wide array of topics. The GPA encourages submissions exploring innovative concepts, novel applications, and transformative findings that contribute to the growing knowledge and practical applications of prebiotics in health and wellness.
GPA defines a prebiotic as: “A product or ingredient that is utilized by the microbiota, producing a health or performance benefit.”
Whether your research sheds light on new mechanisms, uncovers unique prebiotic sources, or demonstrates their impact on health outcomes, this award celebrates the creativity, rigor, and passion that drive scientific innovation in our field.
Two Awards Recognizing Excellence in Research:
To reflect the diverse nature of scientific exploration, the GPA Prebiotic Young Researcher Award is divided into two distinct categories:
Basic Research:
Basic research, often referred to as fundamental or pure research, aims to enhance our understanding of various principles within a particular field without focusing on specific applications. In the context of natural products like prebiotics, this type of research focuses on understanding mechanisms, as seen with microbiome and ex-vivo simulations. It also may deepen our knowledge of how natural compounds influence the microbiome. Typically, this research uses preclinical or in vitro models, including cells and animal models.
Applied Research:
Applied research emphasizes practical applications by leveraging the knowledge gained from basic research to address specific health benefits or microbial interactions. This type of research targets specific problems. In the field of prebiotics, applied research investigates how different ingredients and compounds can enhance, improve, or maintain health outcomes. It also focuses on developing formulations for consumer products and conducting clinical trials to validate the efficacy and safety of these products in humans.
Eligibility and Criteria:
The award is open to young researchers who are:
- Under 40 years old
- The first author of a published or accepted research paper in the field of prebiotics
- Conducting research that aligns with GPA’s mission to steward the prebiotic category through credible science and public awareness
Award Details:
The recipient of the GPA Prebiotic Young Researcher Award will receive:
- A formal recognition and grant from the Global Prebiotic Association
- Opportunities to showcase their research to GPA members and the broader scientific community
- Inclusion in GPA communications to highlight their contribution to the advancement of prebiotic science
Congratulations to Our 2025 Winners!
Congratulations to Dr. Schalich and Dr. Kok for their innovative work! Their studies deepen our knowledge of prebiotics and open doors to personalized, impactful nutritional strategies. We can’t wait to see how their contributions continue to shape the future of gut health and prebiotic research.
We invite young researchers from around the globe to submit their applications for the 2025 award. This is your opportunity to have your work celebrated on a global stage and to join the ranks of researchers shaping the future of health and microbiome science.
Applications are open through February 14th, 2025, and can be submitted via the link below. Don’t miss the chance to make your mark in prebiotic research.
Meet the Past Winners:
2024 Winners:
2023 Winners:
Fundamental Research
Cynthia Fernandez-Lainez
University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen
2022 Winners:
2021 Winner:
Questions: Please contact info@prebioticassociation.org.