Neuroscience Research Prize
Neuroscience Research Prize supports high school students’ original research on the brain and nervous system, recognizing scientific talent and encouraging potential contributions to neuroscience.
Funder: American Academy of Neurology
Due Dates: July 29, 2026 (Applications open) | October 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CT (Applications close) | By end of January 2027 (Notifications)
Funding Amounts: Four $1,000 prizes, plus certificates, meeting presentation opportunities, and travel benefits
Summary: Recognizes U.S. high school students for original research on the brain and nervous system.
Key Information: Individual projects only; applications require parent/guardian, teacher, and mentor e-signatures.
Description
Sponsored by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and Child Neurology Society, this prize encourages high school students to explore the brain and nervous system through original research. It recognizes scientific skill and talent that suggest potential contributions to neuroscience, as well as the efforts of science teachers who support students interested in the field.
Research may address the anatomy, physiology, pathology, function, or behavior of the brain and nervous system. Behavior and psychology projects are encouraged only when they have a clear link to neurophysiology. Physicians and scientists engaged in neuroscience research at academic institutions across the United States review applications in two rounds. Four winners receive monetary awards and opportunities to present their work at a sponsoring society’s annual meeting.
