Sheila Essey Award: An Award for ALS Research

Presented by the AAN, American Brain Foundation and the ALS Association and supported through the philanthropy of the Essey family and the ALS Association.

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About 

This award recognizes an individual who has made significant research contributions in the search for the cause, prevention of, and cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The criteria being used to determine the recipient include recent major scientific impact, long-term scientific impact, and overall impact to ALS.

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 scientific session at the 2025 AAN Annual Meeting.

Benefits

• Sculpture and $50,000 prize to be used by recipient to continue ALS research
• Complimentary registration for the 2025 Annual Meeting

Eligibility

Must be actively engaged in ALS 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
3. Description of how scientific contributions have created a better understanding of ALS; why applicant should receive award; and why contributions represent a major advance or hold significance in ALS research in terms of identifying the cause, potential treatment, prevention, or cure
4. Letter from colleague summarizing applicant's body of work including:​​​​​​
   1. Relevant background material
   2. Research accomplishments placed in context
   3. Assessment of the direct or indirect impact of contributions to the understanding of ALS 
5. Supporting information (not to exceed three pages), including:
   1. Single-page biography including previous positions and any awards or recognition received
   2. One- to two-page listing of six to ten peer-reviewed journal references that support statements about contributions to ALS research (do not send reprints or a bibliography)

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 and Supporting Information: 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.