The UNIC Thematic Lines Best Paper Awards 2026 recognise outstanding scholarly contributions that advance UNIC’s mission to address institutional transformation, justice, security, and well-being in Europe’s post-industrial cities. UNIC strives to boldly respond to the changing world and the needs of local communities, laying the foundations for a better future. The award represents not only a scientific distinction but also an opportunity to promote research within the international network of universities and develop cooperation among UNIC partners.
What papers can be submitted?
The competition is open to both published and accepted articles, and is open to doctoral students and researchers from all UNIC universities.
Thematic scope
Submissions addressing institutional change, inequality, governance, security, health, care infrastructures and well-being in post-industrial urban contexts are especially welcome. Interdisciplinary and cross-institutional collaborations are strongly encouraged.
Eligibility criteria
- The submitted work must be a scientific article.
- The author must be a member of the UNIC university community.
- Individual or team submissions are accepted.
- Each person may submit a maximum of one work as the lead author.
- Works must be thematically related to one of the indicated areas.
Dates
- 16 March 2026: Submission deadline
- March–April 2026: Initial review by academics from at least two UNIC partner institutions
- April–May 2026: Final selection by a peer-judging panel with representation from WP5 and UNIC Thematic Lines
- Selected works will be presented within the Alliance and promoted on UNIC communication channels.
How to submit a paper?
- Submit nominations via email to unic@ku.edu.tr, including: a PDF of the paper (file name: AuthorName_Surname_PaperTitle) and a brief rationale explaining why the paper is being nominated.
- For co-authored work, specify the applicant submitting on behalf of the team.
- Both published and unpublished papers are eligible.
- Include a disclaimer on open-access status.
- For published papers, include the publication year and citation details.
- Nominations close on 16 March 2026 (23:59 CEST).
More information
More information can be found on the UNIC website – we encourage you to read the full announcement.
