Essay Contest

Announcing the winners of the 2020 Essay Contest This year's essay contestants wrote about scientists who inspired them. The Foundation received hundreds of thoughtful entries. Meet the winners. Meet this year's Essay Contest winners

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About the Contest

The Lasker Essay Contest engages young scientists and clinicians from the US and around the globe in a discussion about big questions in biology and medicine and the role of biomedical research in our society today. The Contest aims to build skills in communicating important medical and scientific issues to broad audiences. The topic is announced annually in early February and winners are announced in early July.

Eligibility

The Contest is open to medical school students, interns, residents, and fellows; doctoral students and postdoctoral fellows in biomedical sciences; and graduate students in public health or other health professions programs. Applicants must be currently participating in an educational program. This program may be located in any country.

Prizes

Winners will receive up to $10,000 and a trip (economy class travel and one-night hotel stay) to New York City to meet the Lasker Award winners. All monetary prizes will be directed to the winner's university to be used towards the winner's educational expenses.

Guidelines

Essays should be of 800 words or less and must be written in English. The file containing the essay should include the essay title and the applicant's name, email, and institutional affiliation. References are not counted towards the 800 word limit. Field-specific scientific jargon should be avoided or explained.

Evaluation criteria

Essays will be evaluated based on their quality of writing, style, and clarity. Essays that are not written in English or are longer than 800 words will not be considered.

2020 essay contest and winners

2019 essay contest and winners

2018 essay contest and winners

2017 essay contest and winners

2016 essay contest and winners

2015 essay contest and winners

2014 essay contest and winners

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