Nominations are now open for the prestigious 2025 John Maddox Prize, an international award that recognizes the efforts of individuals who have fearlessly defended scientific evidence and advanced the cause of evidence-based research. Since its inception in 2012, the John Maddox Prize has been honoring individuals who have shown great courage and determination in standing up for science and promoting evidence-based decision making.
Named after the late Sir John Maddox – a renowned science writer and editor – the prize aims to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of those who have worked tirelessly to ensure that scientific evidence plays a crucial role in shaping public policies and discourse. With the world facing numerous challenges, from climate change to the spread of misinformation, the need for evidence-based research and decision making has never been greater. And the John Maddox Prize recognizes the vital role that individuals play in this pursuit.
The prize is open to any individual working in any field of science, including social sciences, who has faced challenges while promoting evidence-based research. This includes researchers, journalists, policy makers, and educators who have demonstrated courage and resilience in the face of adversity. The prize is open to individuals from all over the world, regardless of their age, gender, or nationality.
The nominees for the John Maddox Prize will be evaluated based on the impact of their work in promoting and defending evidence-based research, as well as the challenges they have faced in doing so. The judges will also consider the potential for their work to inspire others and promote a better understanding of science in society. The winner of the prize will receive a cash award of £3000, along with a certificate and a trophy, at a special ceremony in London.
The John Maddox Prize has had a significant impact in bringing attention to the importance of evidence-based research, and the previous winners have made remarkable contributions in their respective fields. In 2020, the prize was awarded to Professor Peter Hotez, a leading expert in tropical diseases, for his work in confronting and debunking anti-vaccine misinformation. Previous winners include Dr. Claire Wordley, a conservation biologist who has been working to improve scientific integrity in conservation policy, and Dr. Fiona Fox, a science communicator who has tirelessly defended the role of evidence in public debates.
If you know someone who has been fighting for evidence-based research and has faced challenges in doing so, now is the time to nominate them for the 2025 John Maddox Prize. Nominations are open until January 31, 2025, and can be submitted online through the prize’s website. The process is simple, and anyone can nominate an individual who they believe is deserving of this prestigious award.
In today’s world, where misinformation and pseudoscience are rampant, it is more important than ever to recognize and honor those who are dedicated to promoting evidence-based research. The John Maddox Prize not only celebrates the individuals who have demonstrated bravery and resilience in the face of challenges but also serves as an inspiration for others to stand up for science.
So, let us all come together to celebrate the unsung heroes of evidence-based research and nominate deserving individuals for the 2025 John Maddox Prize. Let us promote a culture where science is valued, and evidence is the foundation of decision making. Together, we can make a positive impact and create a better world for future generations.
