Marian Diamond Prize 2026

Objectives

Bordeaux Neurocampus launches its annual call to recognize outstanding achievements in Neuroscience of an early career female researcher in our community.

Marian Diamond (1926–2017) was a groundbreaking American neuroscientist who first demonstrated anatomical neuroplasticity and advanced neuron-glia research with her study of Einstein’s brain. Initiated by the Neurocampus Parity and Inclusion Committee (NeuroPIC) in 2023, the Marian Diamond Prize aims to raise the profile of female neuroscientists at a crucial stage in their careers, the postdoctoral period, when they face many barriers to reach academic positions.

The members of the NeuroPIC will evaluate the proposals and announce the laureate during the Special PhD Seminar which will be held on Friday February 6^th 2026, on the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11th). The laureate will be expected to briefly present themselves immediately after the award announcement (e.g., motivation for applying for the award, current career objectives or research interests, etc).

The award includes a personal prize of 1000 €, a research prize of 2000 € financed by Bordeaux Neurocampus and NeuroPIC (CNRS QVCT), and a plenary lecture on June 3^rd 2026 at the Bordeaux Neurocampus Day.

Eligibility criteria

• Be a non-tenured postdoctoral female researcher with a minimum of 3 years’ postdoctoral experience (based on adjusted academic age) on 06/02/2026.
• Be under contract in January 2026 as a member of a Bordeaux Neurocampus institute.
• Be present on campus on February 6^th and June 3^rd
• Previous laureates are not eligible.

Evaluation criteria

• Positioning/impact of the research work in the scientific field in relation to opportunities. That is, the researcher’s activities, results and achievements are evaluated in the context of career and life experiences, including significant career interruptions.
• Involvement in the scientific community, including support for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and science outreach (DuoDay, Déclics, Semaine du cerveau, student/patient associations, etc).

Application

Download the application form (.docx)

Send your application by e-mail to 

Deadline: Tuesday January 20^th 2026, 17:00. Please note that no feedback will be provided.