Recognizing excellence in outreach, community, mentorship, and science across our Department.
The Department of Neuroscience Recognition Awards celebrate individuals whose contributions advance our shared missions of scientific excellence, a positive climate and culture, and community impact.
Faculty, staff, postdoctoral fellows, and trainees are eligible for recognition across the award program.
2026 Award Cycle
- Nominations open: September 10, 2026
- Nomination Deadline: October 15, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. CT
- Award Recognition: December 11, 2026
General Eligibility:
Unless otherwise specified for an individual award:
- Nominees must be current Department of Neuroscience faculty, research or administrative staff, postdoctoral fellows, or graduate students at the time of nomination and award conferral.
- Nominees must have been affiliated with the Department for at least one full fiscal year at the time of nomination.
- Contributions being recognized must have occurred during the nominee’s affiliation with the Department.
- Current voting members of the Social & Recognition Committee are not eligible for nomination during their term of service.
- Individuals may not receive the same award more than once within a three-year period but remain eligible for other award categories.
Nomination Guidelines
- Self-nominations are not accepted.
- Nominations must be submitted by a current Department of Neuroscience member.
- Nominees will not be informed that they have been nominated.
- Late or incomplete nominations will not be reviewed.
Explore the Awards
Outreach Award
Community Impact
Recognizing meaningful contributions to outreach, science communication, public engagement, and community partnerships that advance the Department’s mission of community impact.
Eligible: All Department of Neuroscience members
Community Award
Climate & Culture
Recognizing individuals whose contributions strengthen the Department’s culture, foster connection and collaboration, and make the Department of Neuroscience a better place to work.
Eligible: All Department of Neuroscience members
Outstanding Mentorship Award
Climate & Culture
Recognizing exceptional mentorship that contributes to the development, success, and growth of others and strengthens a supportive Department culture.
Eligible: Department of Neuroscience members who serve as mentors, including faculty, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, research staff, and administrative staff
Scientific Achievement Awards
Excellence in Science
Recognizing outstanding scientific contributions by Department of Neuroscience trainees and research staff at distinct stages of their scientific careers.
Eligible: PhD Students • Postdoctoral Research Associates • Research Staff
Three awards presented annually – one in each category.
Selection Process
Nominations are reviewed by the Social & Recognition Committee using established criteria for each award. Committee members follow conflict-of-interest requirements and recuse themselves when a relationship with a nominee could reasonably affect impartial review. Final selections are subject to Chair ratification.