20 Creative Minds Receive $800,000 MacArthur Fellowships

Twenty scientists, artists, writers and researchers have been named 2026 MacArthur Fellows, receiving one of the most prestigious grants awarded for creativity and achievement.

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation announced the new class on September 29. Each recipient will receive an $800,000 grant over five years with no restrictions on how the money must be used.

The 20 fellows come from a wide range of fields, including science, literature, music, visual art, anthropology and mathematics.

Among this year’s recipients is organic chemist Song Lin, whose research explores new ways to produce complex molecules using electrochemistry. His work could help make the production of medicines and other useful chemicals more efficient and environmentally sustainable.

Another recipient, forensic anthropologist Kate Spradley, has worked to identify the remains of people who died while crossing the U.S.-Mexico border. Her team has identified and helped repatriate the remains of nearly 300 people, giving families answers about missing relatives.

Climate scientist Kaiyu Guan was also selected for his work using satellite data, artificial intelligence and other technologies to improve agricultural productivity while reducing environmental impacts.

The class also includes artists, musicians and writers whose work explores identity, history, human relationships and different ways of understanding the world.

The MacArthur Fellowship is unusual because recipients do not apply for the award. Instead, candidates are nominated and evaluated through a confidential process involving experts from different fields.

The foundation says the fellowships are designed to give talented people the freedom and financial support to pursue their ideas without having to follow a specific project or funding plan.

For the 20 recipients, the award provides not only financial support but also recognition of work that has already made an impact — and the freedom to explore what they might create next.

Source: MacArthur Foundation, September 29, 2026; Associated Press