The John Maddox Prize recognises the work of individuals who promote science and evidence, advancing the public discussion around difficult topics despite challenges or hostility.
The John Maddox prize is a joint initiative of the charity Sense about Science and the leading international scientific journal Nature. The Prize has been awarded annually since 2012 to researchers who have shown great courage and integrity in standing up for science and scientific reasoning against fierce opposition and hostility. Each year there is one or two winners, and an additional prize for an early career researcher.
The prize brings into the spotlight the difficulty faced by many who fight to share the results of research evidence, and inspires and encourages people the world over to do the same. The 2021 John Maddox Prize received 136 nominations from 33 different countries.
Sir John Maddox, whose name this prize commemorates, was a passionate and tireless champion and defender of science, engaging with difficult debates and inspiring others to do the same. As a writer and editor, he changed attitudes and perceptions, and strove for better understanding and appreciation of science throughout his long working life.
“Denouncing fearlessly what he believed to be wrong, dishonest or shoddy, he changed attitudes and perceptions, and strove throughout his long working life for a better public understanding and appreciation of science.” – Walter Gratzer
Benefits
The John Maddox Prize:
- Recognises individuals who stand up for science and evidence, advancing the public discussion of difficult topics despite challenges or hostility
- Brings to attention the difficulty faced by many who fight to share the results of research evidence, and inspires and encourages people the world over to do the same
- Represents the fact that we don’t yet live in a world where it is safe for researchers to speak out openly and honestly about research findings
- Advocates positive change towards an environment in which researchers can engage society in difficult conversations about scientific evidence without fear of professional or personal consequences.
Eligibilities
- Candidates for the John Maddox Prize must be nominated
- This is a global prize: people from any country and in any field can be nominated
- Staff, trustees and directors of the partnering organisations, previous winners and previous or current members of the judging panel and their direct relations are not eligible for nomination for the prize, though they may nominate. It is open to anyone else, including those commended or nominated in previous years and people who have published with or worked with partnering organisations as contributors, advisers or in other collaborations
Eligible Regions: Open for all
APPLICATION PROCESS
- Fill out the online application form.
Application Deadline: May 30, 2022 (3 Days Remaining)