FAQFrequently Asked Questions Q&A
About NSK Blue Prize
- What is the NSK Blue Prize?
- The NSK Blue Prize is an international academic award established by The NSK Nakanishi Foundation to honor researchers who have made globally outstanding contributions to the advancement of dental science and oral healthcare. It recognizes pioneering achievements that have significantly contributed to the progress of dental medicine, including basic research, clinical research, technological innovation, and contributions to social and global health.
- What is the purpose of this award?
- The NSK Blue Prize aims to recognize pioneering achievements that have significantly contributed to the advancement of dental science and to demonstrate to the world the close relationship between oral health and human health, dignity, and quality of life (QOL). It also seeks to support and inspire researchers who are opening new frontiers in dental medicine and to communicate the essential and enduring value of dentistry to society.
- What is the meaning behind “Blue”?
- “Blue” is not only the symbolic color of The NSK Nakanishi Foundation, but also a color representing the Earth, oceans, sky, and life itself. It embodies the aspiration to honor research that transcends borders, cultures, and disciplines while contributing to the improvement of people’s health, dignity, and quality of life.
- Why does the award focus on dental science and oral healthcare?
- Oral health supports essential human functions such as eating, speaking, and expressing emotions, and is deeply connected to overall health and quality of life. The NSK Blue Prize was established to highlight the value of dental science worldwide and to recognize research that benefits humanity as a whole.
Eligible Fields and Candidates
- What research fields are eligible?
- The award primarily recognizes pioneering and internationally acclaimed research achievements in the following fields: (1) basic science in dentistry and oral health, (2) clinical and translational research, (3) technological innovation in dental care, and (4) contributions to social and global health. Beyond academic achievements alone, emphasis is placed on work that contributes to improving people’s health, well-being, and quality of life.
- Are researchers outside Japan eligible?
- Yes. The NSK Blue Prize is an international academic award and is open regardless of nationality or the country of the candidate’s affiliated institution. Researchers who have made global contributions to the advancement of dental science and oral healthcare are eligible.
- Are research groups or organizations eligible instead of individuals?
- In principle, this award recognizes individual researchers. However, for achievements resulting from collaborative research, researchers who played a central role in the work may be nominated as candidates.
- Is self-nomination allowed?
- Self-nominations are not accepted. Nominators must be either the representative of an academic society or the head of the candidate’s affiliated institution.
- Who is considered the “head of an affiliated institution”?
- This refers to individuals holding positions equivalent to university president, dean, graduate school dean, hospital director, institute director, department chair, program director, or similar leadership roles.
Nomination and Application Process
- When is the nomination period?
- The nomination period runs from July 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027. Nomination documents must be submitted by January 31, 2027 (Japan Standard Time).
- How can I submit a nomination?
- Please complete the designated nomination form and send the original document by postal mail to The Foundation. The nomination form can be downloaded from The Foundation’s official website.
- Is postal mail the only method for submitting nomination documents?
- Yes. Please complete the designated nomination form and send the original document by postal mail to The Foundation. Please note that submitted documents will not be returned.
- Is an official seal required on the nomination form?
- Yes. The nomination form must bear the official seal of the academic society or the candidate’s affiliated institution.
- What happens if there are deficiencies in the submitted documents?
- If the submitted documents are incomplete or contain deficiencies, they may be excluded from the review process. If necessary, The Foundation may request additional documents or clarification.
- Can I revise the nomination documents after submission?
- In principle, submitted documents cannot be replaced or revised after submission. If there are unavoidable circumstances, please contact the Secretariat.
Selection Process
- What criteria are used in the selection process?
- The selection process is based on the following principles: (1) scientific excellence, (2) impact on dental care, (3) contribution to humanity, and (4) international perspective and high ethical standards. In addition to the quality and originality of the research, particular emphasis is placed on how the work contributes to improving the health, well-being, and quality of life of people around the world.
- Who conducts the selection process?
- The selection of NSK Blue Prize recipients is conducted by an independent international selection committee. To ensure the independence and fairness of the process, officers and employees of Nakanishi Inc. do not serve as selection committee members.
- Can I inquire about the selection process?
- We are unable to respond to inquiries regarding the progress or details of the selection process. Thank you for your understanding.
- When will the selection results be announced?
- The selection results are scheduled to be announced in March 2027. In addition, the award recipients will be published on The Foundation’s official website.
About the Award
- How many recipients are selected?
- Up to three researchers are recognized each year.
- What is the prize amount?
- Each recipient will receive a prize of JPY 10 million.
- What is awarded in addition to the prize money?
- In addition to the prize money, recipients will receive a medal and a certificate.
- Will there be an award ceremony?
- Yes. Award recipients are expected to attend an award ceremony held in Japan. Recipients will also be invited to deliver a commemorative lecture at the ceremony.
- Will travel and accommodation expenses for the award ceremony be covered?
- Yes. Travel and accommodation expenses for award recipients will be covered by The Foundation.
- What kind of content is expected for the commemorative lecture?
- Recipients are expected to speak about the research recognized by the award, its social significance, and future prospects.
Public Disclosure and Personal Information
- Will information about the award recipients be made public?
- Yes. The award results are subject to The Foundation’s information disclosure policy. Information about award recipients, including their name, affiliation, title, research details, records of activities, and photographs, may be published on The Foundation’s official website and other platforms.
- How will personal information included in the nomination documents be handled?
- Personal information included in the nomination documents will be used only within the scope of this award program. However, necessary information regarding award recipients may be disclosed to the public.
- Will submitted documents be returned?
- No. Submitted documents will not be returned. If necessary, please keep copies for your own records before submission.
- Can the award be revoked?
- Yes. If false information is found in the submitted documents, or if conduct deemed inappropriate for an award recipient is identified, the award may be revoked and the return of the certificate, medal, and prize money may be requested.
Contact Us
- Please contact us for inquiries.
- For inquiries regarding the NSK Blue Prize, please contact the Secretariat of the NSK Nakanishi Foundation.
700 Shimohinata, Kanuma, Tochigi 322-0075, Japan Email：nsk-blueprize@nakanishi-zaidan.or.jp
- Can I make inquiries by phone?
- As a general rule, we kindly ask that inquiries be submitted by e-mail. After reviewing the details of your inquiry, the Secretariat will respond accordingly.
