​The IUGS Émile Argand Award, previously called the Steno Award, was established in 2012 as the highest award of IUGS. This award is given in recognition to geologists who have had a significant influence by means of a substantial body of excellent research, or for outstanding original contributions or achievements that mark a major advance in the science of geology. Due to the fact that the Danish Geological Society traditionally distributes a Steno prize was necessary to rename this IUGS award as the IUGS Émile Argand Award. The award is given every four years during an IGC session. The first award was given at the 35th IGC in Cape Town, South Africa.