Given the benefits that awards and prizes bring to scientific careers, a series of workshops held by the Australian Academy of Science for early- and mid-career researchers has identified ways to improve diversity among recipients (go.nature.com/39j5yus).

The system for awarding prizes and medals currently perpetuates a stereotypical view of successful scientists that can discourage applications from minority groups. Advertising needs to be reframed — for example, awardees with diverse backgrounds could be showcased, and language used should be more targeted. The focus should be on demonstrated research excellence, rather than on vague, subjective qualities described as ‘outstanding’ and ‘distinguished’.

Current selection methods are based on a conventional linear career path, further limiting the diversity of prize recipients. It would encourage a wider range of applicants if age restrictions were removed, along with the detailed assessment of career interruptions (such as those due to carer responsibilities).

Making assessment panels more diverse can itself promote diversity among award recipients (A. James et al. R. Soc. Open Sci. 6, 190633; 2019). Evaluation could also be broadened beyond standard research metrics to include mentoring and outreach, as well as industry and policy engagement, teaching, advocacy and committee service.