The 2026 call is for scientists aged 40 or younger in 2026 who are affiliated with an academic or research institution in an EU member state, a Horizon Europe associated country, or Switzerland. The qualifying discovery or achievement must have been made from 1 January 2023 through the submission date. Applications require the official form, up to three publications, two or three recommendation letters, and may include a scientific CV. The winner receives a monetary reward equivalent to PLN 100,000, a certificate, and an invitation to the annual Lem Prize ceremony.