[American Academy of Neurology](https://www.aan.com)

October 2026

$50,000 prize and sculpture; complimentary registration for the AAN Annual Meeting

Recognizes an individual for significant research contributions toward understanding, preventing, or curing ALS.

Both self-applications and nominations are accepted; industry employees are not eligible.

--- ## Description This award honors a researcher who has made outstanding contributions to the field of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), with an emphasis on both recent and long-term scientific impact. Selection criteria include the nominee’s influence on the ALS research community, scientific citizenship, innovation, and legacy in advancing understanding, prevention, or treatment of ALS. The recipient is expected to present a 20-minute lecture at the AAN Annual Meeting, sharing their achievements and insights. --- ## Due Dates - October 2026 (anticipated full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - $50,000 prize to support continued ALS research - Sculpture commemorating the award - Complimentary registration for the AAN Annual Meeting --- ## Eligibility - Must be actively engaged in ALS research - Both self-applications and nominations are accepted - Applicants do **not** need to be AAN members - Industry employees are **not** eligible --- ## Application Process Applicants must submit: - Completed application form - Current curriculum vitae (CV) - Letter from the applicant summarizing their scientific contributions to ALS, significance of their work, and justification for the award - Letter from a colleague summarizing the applicant’s body of work, research accomplishments, and impact on ALS understanding - Supporting information (max three pages), including: - One-page biography with previous positions and honors - One- to two-page list of 6–10 peer-reviewed journal references supporting ALS research contributions (no reprints/bibliography) **Nominations:** - Nominators complete the application form and select "I wish to nominate someone" - Nominee receives an email to complete and upload their application materials - Nominators do not submit materials on behalf of the nominee --- ## Additional Information - Judging criteria include scientific citizenship, innovation, impact, quality of supporting letters, and overall legacy in ALS research. - The recipient is expected to deliver a lecture during a scientific session at the AAN Annual Meeting. --- ## External Links - [Program page and application details](https://www.aan.com/research/sheila-essey-award-for-als-research) - [Funder homepage](https://www.aan.com) - [AAN Awards search (additional opportunities)](https://www.aan.com/search/awards?page=1) --- ## Contact Information | Name / Role | Email | Phone | Web Contact | |---------------------------------------|----------------------------|------------------|--------------------------------------------------| | Katie Anderson, Scientific Education Program Manager | science@aan.com | (800) 879-1960 | [AAN Contact Page](https://www.aan.com/about-the-aan/contact-us) |

Award for Significant Research Contributions in ALS

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