Best Negative Data Prize in Preclinical Neuroscience

The Best Negative Data Prize in Preclinical Neuroscience recognises published 'negative' scientific results and results that do not confirm the expected outcome. The winner of the Best Negative Data Prize in Preclinical Neuroscience receives travel and accommodations support to attend the ECNP Congress.

Submit your nomination

About the award

The award was founded to raise awareness about the importance of publishing well-conducted studies, regardless of the outcome. By encouraging the publication of negative data, it aims to forestall the loss of scientific knowledge and the unnecessary duplication of research efforts and the potential loss of time and money that might result, and to advance scientific integrity and increase public trust in research. 

Who can apply

Applications should be submitted by the first or corresponding author of a publication that:

  • Was written in English and was published or is accepted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal that is currently listed by Web of Science and Scopus
  • Has a date of publication that is not older than 1 January 2022
  • Reports results of a non-clinical study (or set of studies)
  • Is not a review
  • Is a full-length paper with detailed materials and methods section(s) (within the body of the paper or as supplementary information)

It is expected that the authors of nominated papers are confident that technical failures are not the reason for obtaining results. Further, the authors of the nominated papers should be willing to share raw data with third parties (if requested and not part of the publication).

How to apply

Corresponding authors may nominate their papers by sending the PDF of the paper via the application form, available through the button below. Please include a motivation statement explaining why you believe the paper merits the award. 

Deadline is 18 May at 9.00 CEST.

Submit your nomination via the form

Award selection and presentation

The award is biennial. Following an open call, submissions are evaluated by the review committee and a winner is selected.  The public presentation of the award will take place during the ECNP Congress, with travel and accommodation expenses covered by the ECNP. 

For more information, please contact the ECNP Office via e-mail.

Award ceremony

The award is conferred at the ECNP Congress.