The ASM Microbiome Prize recognizes distinguished research achievements that yield significant insights into the activity, function and dynamics of multispecies communities of microorganisms within a defined habitat and their interactions with each other and their physical environments. These significant contributions to microbiome research may include:
Developing and supporting data analysis software, data processing methods and standards to support the characterization of microbiome composition, activity and function.
Taking innovative approaches or developing theoretical advances to deliver new insights into the dynamics, activity and function of microbiomes, including interactions with their physical or biological environments.
Championing microbiome research through teaching, training, mentoring or other engagement activities.
Discovering new biological pathways through microbiome research.
Scientists at any career stage are eligible. Starting in 2024, scientists may either directly apply for the prize or be nominated for the prize. Nominations and applications will be accepted.
Applications/nominations must demonstrate outstanding accomplishments in microbiome research. Applications/nominations should clearly outline the outcome(s) and impact(s) of the work on the research community. Applications/nominations can be based on a single exceptionally significant achievement or the aggregate of a number of exemplary achievements.
* Note: The prize recognizes an individual contribution to a research project. The application/nomination must clearly demonstrate the unique contribution of the individual.
Review Criteria:
Demonstrated scientific contributions toward data stewardship, data analysis, open science and a lasting commitment to advancing microbiome science.
Evidence of leadership in scientific research, discovery, teaching, etc. to promote the microbiome field.
Clear impact beyond a singular scientific output as evidenced by engagement (e.g., citations, tool usage, data usage) within the research community.
Strong letters of support from non-funded collaborators or research community members on research, data or software contributions.
Applications Must Include:
Application Form. Applicants will need to create a free ASM account or log in to their current ASM account to complete the application form.
Letters of Support. Two letters of support are required. Supporters will be notified by ASM to submit their letters electronically after the application form is submitted and received by ASM.
Nominations Must Include:
Nomination Form. Nominator will need to create a free ASM account or log in to their current ASM account to complete the nomination.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) of the nominee is required to complete the nomination. After the nomination form is submitted by the nominator, the nominee will be contacted by ASM and asked to enter highlights from their CV on a CV template.
Awardee Benefits
The prize recipient will receive the following honors:
One time waiver to publish an article without charge in 1 of ASM Journals.
A cash prize of $1,700.
Personalized commemorative keepsake.
Be invited to speak at the next ASM Microbe meeting.
Be recognized at the next ASM Microbe meeting and be invited as an honored guest at the ASM and American Academy of Microbiology leadership receptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
For answers to the most frequently asked questions about ASM awards, see the Awards and Prize FAQs page.
Award Selection Process
All eligible nominations/applications will be reviewed by the respective award/prize selection committee. The committee members will use the submitted materials to evaluate each nominee/applicant using the described eligibility criteria. The committee will discuss outstanding candidates and determine the awardee for that year. The committee takes into consideration various factors about the candidates in the decision to ensure the selected awardee is a strong example of excellence in the field. ASM awards are granted at the discretion of award selection committees and might not be awarded every year.
