The World Copernican Congress will be opened in Toruń on Sunday. In addition to presenting the state of research into the life and work of the eminent scientist and astronomer, as well as his impact on the development of science, culture and the arts, the Congress will also see the presentation of the Copernican Awards.

The Copernican Prizes honour scientists with achievements of groundbreaking importance for the world of science. The individual prize, worth the equivalent of PLN 500 000, is a form of recognition for the achievements of researchers who have shifted the boundaries of previous cognition of mankind.

During the Congress, nominations for the Secretary General and members of the Copernican Academy will also be presented. 

“The first half of the nominal membership, i.e. 50 people, will be appointed by the President of the Republic of Poland on the proposal of the Minister of Education and Science. The other half will be appointed by the President at the request of the Academy members”, says Professor Grzegorz Górski, Plenipotentiary of the Minister of Education and Science for the organisation of the Copernican Academy.

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