The AAN and the Child Neurology Society sponsor this award.
This award was established to encourage high school students to explore the world of the brain and nervous system through laboratory research.
To identify and reward high school students whose scientific skill and talent indicate potential for scientific contributions in the field of neuroscience.
To recognize the efforts of science teachers who have demonstrated support for students interested in neuroscience.
All entries will be reviewed by a panel of physicians and scientists who are actively engaged in neuroscience research at academic institutions throughout the US. Four prize winners will be selected through two rounds of competition.
Four winners will each receive a $1,000 prize. Three winners and their teachers will receive airfare, two nights hotel, $100 per day for expenses (up to two days), and the opportunity to present their work during a scientific poster session at the AAN 65th Annual Meeting in San Diego, CA—the world’s largest gathering of neurologists. One winner and his/her teacher will receive an all-expense paid, two-day trip to present his/her work at the Child Neurology Society 42nd Annual Meeting in Austin, TX.
Applicants should submit a complete set of the following:
All project entries received by the deadline date will be judged by physician and scientist members of the American Academy of Neurology based on the following criteria:
The problem being investigated concerns the brain or the nervous system including, but not limited to: anatomy, physiology, pathology, function, and behavior. Behavior and psychology projects are not encouraged unless there is a clear link to neurophysiology.
Creativity will be based on the originality of the problem solving approach, even if the specific problem being addressed is not a new or unusual one.
The scope of the hypothesis and methodology is feasible. The potential significance of the experiments is placed in the proper perspective. Potential pitfalls of the methodology or interpretation have been addressed.
The report is organized, well-written, and the accompanying figures and tables are clearly labeled and readable.
The student is able to discuss the project and defend the stated conclusions effectively in an oral interview.
The ten finalists will have the opportunity to discuss their project through telephone interviews with at least two judges. The winners will be selected based on overall written and verbal performance.
The 2013 scientific award deadline has passed. Award notifications will be sent to all applicants in early January.
For more information, please contact Erin Jackson at ejackson@aan.com or (612) 928-6112.