Movement Disorders Research Award

Sponsored by the American Academy of Neurology, the Parkinson’s Foundation, and the American Academy of Neurology Movement Disorders Section and endowed by the Parkinson’s Foundation.

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About

This award recognizes an individual for outstanding work in the field of Parkinson's disease or other movement disorders for either a single outstanding contribution or for lifetime achievement.

Timeline

• Applications open: June 25, 2024
• Applications close: October 31, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. CT

Presentation

Recipient is expected to present a 20-minute lecture during a movement disorders scientific session at the 2025 AAN Annual Meeting.

Benefits

• Certificate of recognition and a minimum of $1,500 prize
• Complimentary registration for the 2025 Annual Meeting

Eligibility

Must be actively engaged in movement disorders research. Industry employees are not eligible to apply.

Application Procedure

Applicants should submit one complete set of the following materials:

1. Completed application form
2. Current curriculum vitae. If applicable, please include information relevant to the applicant's history of mentorship and AAN interactions in the curriculum vitae.
3. Letter summarizing how applicant’s scientific contributions have created a better understanding of Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorders.
4. Letter from colleague summarizing applicant's body of work including:

• Relevant background material
• Research accomplishments placed in context
• Assessment of the direct or indirect impact of contributions to the understanding of movement disorders

Nominations 

This award accepts both self-applicants and nominations. Nominators should complete the submission form and select the option "I wish to nominate someone". The nominee will receive an email with a link to complete the award application and upload their application materials. Nominators do not need to provide application materials for the nominee.

Judging Criteria 

All applications received by the deadline date will be judged based on the following criteria: 

• CV: Judges will consider scientific citizenship, track record (number of papers, first authorships, journal impact, etc.), and career stage.
• Summary Letter: Letter should demonstrate the following qualities: innovative, clearly described, impact, consistent with skill set, appropriate statistical methodology, evidence of ethical considerations, and potential to fill a gap.
• Letter of Support: Letter should display the following: strength of professional potential, outline ownership of project, outline aspects that define a researcher, and outline career trajectory related to this award.
• Overall Impact on the Field: Judges will consider scientific integrity, academic excellence, legacy of mentorship, outstanding professionalism, and inspiration for future generations.

Questions?

For more information or questions, please contact the Scientific Awards Team at science@aan.com.