HEC Research Awards 2026-27 Announced | Higher Education Commission Calls for Applications

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan has invited applications from Pakistani researchers and scholars for the prestigious HEC Research Awards 2026-27. The awards aim to recognize excellence in research, contributions to intellectual development, and the promotion of high-impact scholarly publications in Pakistan.

The HEC Research Awards serve as a national recognition platform for outstanding researchers whose academic work has significantly contributed to the advancement of knowledge and research culture in the country.

HEC Research Awards Categories 2026-27

Applications are invited for the following award categories:

  • Best Researcher Award
  • Best Young Researcher Award
  • Best Publication Award

Eligibility Criteria

General Eligibility Requirements

  • The applicant must never have been blacklisted by HEC.
  • The publication must not have received the same award previously.
  • None of the publications or applicant author’s credits should violate HEC’s plagiarism policy.

Best Researcher Award Eligibility

  • The applicant must have been a resident of Pakistan for at least three years as of 01 January 2026.

Best Young Researcher Award Eligibility

  • The applicant must be under 40 years of age on 01 January 2026.
  • The applicant must be a resident of Pakistan for at least one year as of 01 January 2026.

Best Publication Award Eligibility

  • The publication must be a scholarly book or journal article.
  • The publication must not be more than three years old as of 01 January 2026.
  • The publication must be written by no more than three authors.
  • All authors must have been residents of Pakistan for at least three years as of 01 January 2026.
  • The research article must be published in an HEC-recognised W-category journal.
  • The publication must have a minimum citation count of 100.
  • A publication submitted previously for the same category cannot be re-submitted.
  • Books must be published by a recognised academic press.

Benefits of HEC Research Awards

The HEC Research Awards recognize exceptional contributions in research and innovation while encouraging scholars to pursue high-quality academic work. Receiving an HEC award enhances academic reputation, research visibility, and professional recognition at the national level.

How to Apply?

Eligible researchers and scholars can submit their applications online through the HEC Research Awards portal:

Online Application Portal:
https://research.hec.gov.pk

Incomplete or late applications will not be entertained.

Application Deadline

Last Date to Submit Applications: Saturday, 31 October 2026

Submission of Supporting Documents

After online submission, applicants are required to submit supporting documents through:

HEC HRA Portal:
https://www.hec.gov.pk/site/HRA

Email: hra@hec.gov.pk

Facilitation Team

Ms. Humaira Qudus
Director (R&D), HEC
Phone: 051-9041904

Mr. Muhammad Bilal Malik
Deputy Director (R&D), HEC
Phone: 051-9041919

Mr. Ajaz Ahmed
Assistant Director (R&D), HEC
Phone: 051-9041945

Why Apply for HEC Research Awards?

  • National recognition for outstanding research achievements.
  • Enhances academic and professional profile.
  • Promotes research excellence and innovation.
  • Recognition of impactful publications and scholarly work.
  • Supports Pakistan’s research and higher education ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the HEC Research Awards 2026-27?

The awards recognize outstanding researchers, young researchers, and high-impact publications in Pakistan.

Who can apply for the Best Young Researcher Award?

Researchers under 40 years of age as of 01 January 2026 and meeting residency requirements can apply.

What is the last date to apply?

The deadline for submitting applications is 31 October 2026.

Where can applicants submit their applications?

Applications can be submitted online through the official HEC Research Awards portal at research.hec.gov.pk.

Can previously awarded publications be submitted?

No. Publications that have already received the same award are not eligible.

What type of publications qualify for the Best Publication Award?

Eligible publications include scholarly books and journal articles meeting HEC’s specified criteria.