The Eppendorf & Science Prize for Neurobiology is an international research award recognizing exceptional neurobiological research by early career scientists. Established in 2002 by Eppendorf and Science / AAAS, the Prize celebrates groundbreaking experimental work in molecular, cellular, systems, or organismic neurobiology conducted within the past three years. The 2026 Prize marks the program’s 25th anniversary.
Organization
Eppendorf & Science / AAAS
Support Type
Scientific research prize (individual award)
Geographic Focus
International
About the Prize
The Eppendorf & Science Prize for Neurobiology honors the growing importance of neuroscience in advancing our understanding of the brain and nervous system. Awarded annually, the Prize encourages and supports promising young neurobiologists through recognition, publication, and financial support. The grand prize winner is selected by an independent jury of leading scientists chaired by a senior editor of Science and is announced at a ceremony held in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of the Society for Neuroscience.
Prize Details
- Grand Prize: US$25,000 (personal award)
- Complimentary AAAS membership and Science digital subscription (multi-year)
- US$1,000 in complimentary Eppendorf products
- Winner’s essay published in Science and Science Online
- Travel support to attend the prize ceremony and a visit to Eppendorf in Hamburg
Up to three finalists may also be named, with finalist essays published online and similar non-cash benefits provided.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be an early career neurobiologist not older than 35 years at the time of entry
- Hold an advanced degree (M.D., Ph.D., or M.D./Ph.D.) received within the last 10 years (extensions apply for documented circumstances)
- Have performed or directed the research described
- Submit work conducted within the past three years
- Submit an original essay (maximum 1,000 words)
Important: AI-generated text or figures may not be used to create or edit submissions (limited tools such as Grammarly are allowed but must be declared).
Application Materials
Entrants must submit electronically:
- Completed entry form
- A 1,000-word essay describing the research and the entrant’s contribution
- One-page letter of recommendation from a senior colleague
- Curriculum Vitae with relevant publications and honors
- Copies of two papers most relevant to the essay
Selection Process & Timeline
- Submission Deadline: June 15, 2026
- June–August: Compilation and review of submissions
- By end of August: Winner and finalists notified
- November: Official announcement and prize ceremony
Essays are evaluated for scientific quality and significance and clarity of writing by Science editors and an international judging panel chaired by Science’s Senior Editor.
Apply / Learn More
➡️ https://corporate.eppendorf.com/en/company/scientific-awards/global-award/
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This Prize is an excellent opportunity for outstanding early career neurobiologists seeking international recognition, publication in Science, and flexible prize funding to support their research trajectory.
