Celebrating Breakthroughs in Brain Research with the ALBA–Elsevier Award Lecture

Launching Body: ALBA Network in partnership with ElsevierPurposeThe ALBA-Elsevier Award Lecture was inaugurated in 2021 to honour the best research work in neuroscience. It recognizes the scientists who do not just increase knowledge on the topic of brain research but...
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Launching Body: ALBA Network in partnership with Elsevier

Purpose

The ALBA-Elsevier Award Lecture was inaugurated in 2021 to honour the best research work in neuroscience. It recognizes the scientists who do not just increase knowledge on the topic of brain research but also foster equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the same.

Honouring Scientific Excellence

This award highlights the work of PhD- or MD-qualified scientists who are actively pushing the boundaries of brain research. The prize brings attention to those who are making significant contributions to the knowledge of the human brain by concentrating on the most recent contributions.

Promoting Equity and Diversity

The peculiar feature of this award is that it is EDI-oriented. It acknowledges researchers who have strived to achieve the equal opportunities in neuroscience, be it through mentoring, advocacy, or institution-wide initiatives. By doing this, it promotes the inclusion of a scientific community.

Supporting Underrepresented Regions

The other important objective is to gain visibility of scientists in countries which are not well represented in neuroscience publications and conferences. The award throws light on these areas and expands the participation of the global research communities and enhances the international cooperation.

 Key Details

ItemDescription
Prize FocusRecognition of yearly research achievements in neuroscience with emphasis on EDI and representation
EligibilityPhD- or MD-qualified scientist working at the frontiers of brain research; must also have made contributions to EDI and currently work in a country underrepresented in neuroscience
Award SignificanceIncreases visibility of both the awardee and their institution; supports regional diversity in global neuroscience
Deadline15 October 2025

Next Steps / Timeline

  • Annual Selection: One scientist is selected each year based on research achievements and contributions to equity and diversity
  • Biennial FENS Forum: Each Forum includes lectures by the two most recent awardees.
    • The 2026 FENS Forum will feature Special Lectures by both the 2025 and 2026 awardees, giving them a platform to share their work with a large international audience.

Why This Matters

Raising the Profile of Neuroscience in Underrepresented Countries

Most scientists are struggling to become visible due to low number of publications or lack of attendance in international conferences in their countries. This award contributes towards bridging that gap by rewarding worthy research and their respective institutions.

Encouraging Equity and Inclusion

By focusing on contributions to EDI, the award shows that scientific excellence includes not just research output but also efforts to make the field fairer and more accessible. This is an indicator of an increased inclusivity in science globally.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Young scientists can have role models in the ALBA-Elsevier Award Lecture. The observation of peers performing in the world level encourages students and young researchers in the field of neuroscience to keep working in the field since they know that their work can be acknowledged no matter where the country is.

Call to Action

Nominations are open until 15 October 2025. For details on eligibility and submission guidelines, visit the ALBA Network website.