MacArthur Foundation names 20 'genius' grant winners for 2026

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation has announced its 2026 class of MacArthur Fellows, bestowing $800,000 unrestricted fellowships on 20 selected individuals. The biennial awards, widely regarded as among the world's most prestigious, honour people demonstrating exceptional talent and dedication across a broad spectrum of disciplines.

Known colloquially as 'genius grants,' the MacArthur Fellowships have become synonymous with recognising unconventional thinkers and innovators who challenge conventional wisdom in their respective fields. The recipients represent diverse backgrounds and work in areas ranging from science and technology to arts, humanities, and social activism.

The fellowship programme operates without application requirements, with the foundation identifying candidates through an extensive nomination and vetting process conducted by anonymous panels of experts. The unrestricted nature of the awards allows fellows to pursue their work according to their own vision, without predetermined outcomes or reporting requirements.

Each fellowship spans five years and provides fellows with the financial freedom to take risks, explore new directions, or deepen existing commitments to their work. The MacArthur Foundation emphasises that the awards recognise not just past achievement but potential for future impact and contribution to society.