The John Maddox Prize for courageously advancing public discourse with sound science recognises individuals who stand up for science and evidence, advancing 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 individuals who have shown courage and integrity in standing up for sound science and evidence. In addition to the main award, there is an additional prize for an individual considered to be at an early career stage.
The prize brings into the spotlight the underappreciated efforts of people the world over who try to bring research and evidence to public debate even when it is challenging, and inspires and encourages others to do the same. The prize has a global focus and received hundreds of nominations from dozens of countries.
Objectives of the Prize:
- Recognise individuals who stand up for sound science and evidence, advancing the public discussion of difficult topics despite challenges or hostility.
- Bring attention to the courage and effort shown by underappreciated researchers who take responsibility for helping society understand research evidence, and encourage others to do the same.
- Represent 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.
- Advocate positive change towards an environment in which researchers can engage society in difficult conversations about scientific evidence without fear of professional or personal consequences.
Requirements
Nominations should be received from individuals in a personal capacity. These should be submitted online, and address the following questions:
- What science did the nominee communicate and on what issue?
- How did the nominee engage others in the discussion?
- What challenges, adversity or barriers did the nominee overcome in their communication efforts?
- What impacts did the nominee’s efforts have?
- Why was it important that the nominee’s voice was heard in this debate?
Deadline: 1 May 2023
Image source by Steven Kamenar