RESEARCH & PUBLICATIONS

Advancing Academic Research & Collaboration

We engage leading academics globally to develop, exchange and publish research that addresses real-world challenges and industry innovation priorities.

How we do it

Short Papers Platform

A global open call for academic research, with selected papers presented at our international summit.

Research Partnerships

Academic-industry collaboration that aligns research with industry priorities and accelerates its translation into practical solutions.

Engagement Programme

Year-round programming connecting professors and industry through workshops, meetings and networking opportunities.

Awards and Grants

Each year, our awards celebrate professors' research that demonstrates exceptional potential for real-world impact. In 2026, our first grant will be presented in collaboration with industry.

Explore last year’s selected projects  

Short Papers Platform

The Short Papers Platform brings together professors from around the world to share research, exchange knowledge and advance academic research with real-world impact. For the 2026 edition, Prototypes for Humanity has partnered with the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD) to support research addressing complex challenges across seven strategic themes. Selected papers will be presented through a dedicated academic conference as part of the annual Prototypes for Humanity programme, before being published internationally.

Learn More About the 2026 Programme

Engagement Programme

Throughout the year, Prototypes for Humanity creates opportunities for professors and industry to connect, exchange ideas and build relationships through a range of in-person activities. From collaborative workshops and research showcases to PechaKucha talks, one-to-one meetings and networking events, these varied formats encourage new connections, conversations and opportunities for collaboration.

Research Partnerships

We connect organisations with world-leading academic experts through collaboration frameworks that translate research into real-world value. We work closely with industry to understand their challenges and the areas where academic research can create real impact - unlocking partnerships and commercial opportunities for professors from around the world.

Publications

Prototypes for Humanity publishes research exploring solutions to global challenges with the potential for real-world impact. Each year, the Conference Proceedings bring together selected papers from the Short Papers Platform, creating an academic record that extends their reach beyond the annual Summit to researchers, industry leaders, practitioners and policymakers worldwide.