Parel (Pearl Award)

Of all projects that ZonMw funds, there are a number that we like to highlight as a good example of what we stand for. These projects are successful collaborations between all relevant parties, or have a major social or scientific impact.

What is a ZonMw Parel?

The ZonMw Parel (Pearl Award) is awarded to exceptionally good projects funded by ZonMw. Such projects provide a good example of what we would like to see in other projects, and of what ZonMw stands for. They feature:

  • a useful and outstanding result
  • successful collaboration between all relevant parties
  • scientific and/or social impact.

Eligibility for a ZonMw Parel

The ZonMw Parel award is for ZonMw-funded projects whose results are already known. They should preferably have already been completed. A Parel can only be awarded to a project, not to an individual, team, foundation, consortium or organisation.

What do Parel projects receive?

The Parel award focuses extra attention on a project and its results. The award does not include any prize money. It consists of a Parel figure and a video about the project, made in collaboration with the project leader. The video and the extra communications on the award  create extra publicity for the project.

How does a project become a Parel project?

Staff at ZonMw can nominate projects for a ZonMw Parel. A Parel Committee has been set up to ensure that the winning projects are selected in a uniform way, and to guarantee that the process is transparent. The committee, which represents a cross-section of the organisation, selects 6 Parels each year.

List of Parel projects

Pearl Award for international project studying policies on physical activity

Which policies make the living environment more conducive to...

Pearl for groundbreaking research into microplastics in the placenta

There are growing signs that microplastics and nanoplastics...

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