The Hector Research Career Development Award (Hector RCD Award) was announced in 2020; with it, the Hector Fellow Science Academy (HFA) pursues the goal of promoting and supporting the scientific career of junior researchers in natural and engineering sciences. The award aims to nurture and encourage young scientists at a critical point in their careers. The award addresses W1 professors and junior research group leaders and is endowed with 25.000€. 50% of the awardees will be female.