The annual KCGH Thesis and PhD Prize encourages starting researchers and makes research within global health visible. With this award, the Global Health Knowledge Centre (KCGH) puts the spotlight on innovative and creative research and promotes knowledge that contributes to equitable and sustainable healthcare worldwide.
At KCGH, we believe that progress in global health starts with strong and innovative research. With the Thesis and PhD Prize, we recognise students and PhD students whose work contributes to better health outcomes, both locally and globally.
With this award, we encourage innovative thinking within global health, support start-up researchers and strengthen the connection between research and societal impact.
Prices
€500
Bachelor theses (WO and HBO)
For an undergraduate thesis distinguished by innovation and social relevance within global health.
€500
Master theses
For a master's thesis with an innovative and impactful contribution to global health.
€500
Thesis or dissertation in the field of Global Child Health
For an undergraduate/master's thesis or dissertation focusing on global child health.
Offered by Global Child Health expertise group
€1000
PhD thesis
For a dissertation that offers significant new insights within global health.
The award can be used for further professional development, such as continuing research, attending training courses or strengthening collaborations.
Key dates in 2026
1 May 2026
Opening submissions
The new edition opens for undergraduate, graduate and PhD submissions.
1 October 2026
Deadline
Last day to submit your thesis or dissertation.
26 October 2026 19:00 - 21:00
Workshop for participants
All participants are invited to the workshop
Impact through creative science communication
From The Online Scientist.
28 October 2026
Announcement to participants
Winners will be announced to participants.
Previous editions
Edition 2025
From 26 entries, the jury selected research distinguished by scientific quality, innovation and social relevance. The award-winning studies show how academic research contributes to health equity and better care worldwide.
PhD award
Merel van der Stelt
3D Technology in Prosthetic Care: Enhancing Accessibility in Sierra Leone
Her research shows how 3D printing and AI-assisted design can increase accessibility to prosthetic care, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges of technological innovation in local healthcare systems.
Master prize
Wallace Watson
Understanding the Characteristics of Tuberculosis Cases Missed by Chest X-Ray
This study shows which groups are at risk of false-negative tuberculosis diagnoses and highlights the importance of improved diagnostic strategies for fairer care.
Master prize - Global Child Health
Thijs Wijnheijmer
The Impact of Transfer Learning in Paediatric Critical Illness Event Prediction
His research shows how data and AI can contribute to better and more accessible care for seriously ill children worldwide.
Edition 2024
KCGH received 36 high-quality entries, highlighting the diversity and impact of research within global health. The selected winners show how academic work contributes to important issues such as health equity, access to care and vulnerable groups.
Bachelor Prize
Lara Schmale-Hüsemann
Health Equity Analysis of the Africa CDC Strategy on Non-Communicable Diseases
Her research offers a critical analysis of how health equity is integrated into policy and exposes where improvements are needed.
Master prize
Robert Dasović
Unheard Voices: Navigating the lives of homeless people
This research provides insight into the experiences of vulnerable groups and highlights the importance of person-centred and trauma-informed care.
PhD prize - Global Child Health
Tom Jacobs
Accelerating access to optimal anti-infective treatment for children living with HIV
His work focuses on improving access to essential treatment for children in low-income countries.
PhD award
Lennart Maljaars
Surgical Care and Innovation for Vesicovaginal Fistula
This research combines medical innovation with attention to social context and stigma, with the aim of better care for women worldwide.
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