The Infinite Expansion Awards recognize the outstanding contributions of postdoctoral researchers, research and program scientists, research engineers, principal research scientists, and senior research scientists. These contributions can be in the form of direct support for your research program or they can be a service to the MIT community such as mentoring and advising junior colleagues, participating in MIT’s educational programs, or active engagement in the MIT Postdoctoral Association. Awardees are honored with a monetary prize of $2,000 and a celebratory lunch hosted by the school. Infinite Expansion Award nominations are open through December 22, 2025.

Nomination Guidelines

Nominators should submit a nomination letter and 1-2 pages of supporting documentation. The strongest nominations include:

  • Specific examples of the employee’s contributions to the School of Science.
  • Context for the employee’s role in their DLCI.
  • Supporting quotes or additional nomination letters from other colleagues.

Eligibility

The Infinite Expansion Awards are for postdoctoral researchers, and research and program scientists.

Please note that some fellowships prohibit postdoctoral fellows from receiving additional financial support. Before nominating a postdoctoral fellow, confirm their eligibility with your Director of Administration and Finance or departmental finance contact.

If you would like to nominate administrative and support staff, learn more about the Infinite Mile Awards.

Nominator information

Nominator name

Nominee information

Nominee name
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If you do not receive confirmation of this submission within 48 hours, please contact us at scncinfo@mit.edu. Thank you!

Previous winners of the Infinite Mile, Infinite Expansion (Kilometer), and COVID-19 Heroes staff awards are listed here.

Find out more about these awards here.