Richard Armstrong died in February 2020 in Scotland.
His mother, Joan Armstrong, contacted his former school, Cockermouth School, because she wanted to make a donation in his memory, to the Chemistry department.
Chemistry was his favourite subject.
A school spokesman said: "Mrs Joan Armstrong has made a very kind donation to the Chemistry department.
"Trevor Carruthers, head of Chemistry, decided that some of the funds should be used to present an annual award to the most Outstanding Chemist of the Year, in Richard’s Memory.
"The remaining funds will be used to purchase some new equipment for the department that can be used to help inspire other budding chemists to explore their passion for the subject."