Young Investigator Award

Purpose:

This is the most prestigious Obesity Society research award that is made annually to recognise and encourage the research careers of young or recently graduated scientists active in obesity-related research.  The award is based on a consideration of the originality, ingenuity and productivity of the applicant over the past 5 years and an assessment of their potential for further contribution.

Eligibility:

• The award is open to young researchers who are currently financial members of the Obesity Society. 
• They should have obtained or are currently undertaking a higher degree or award (i.e. MSc PhD, MD, college fellowship),
• Are 35 years or younger, or
• Are in the early stages of a research career (i.e. within 5 years of obtaining their postgraduate degree).

Applications:

• Applications close on the date abstracts fall due for the Obesity Society Annual Scientific Meeting.
• Applicants are asked to submit a curriculum vitae together with up to 3 original research papers or abstracts published (or accepted for publication) in the previous 5 years.  This should be supported by 2 separate letters -  one from the mentor of the candidate supporting their application, and another from a recognised expert in their field of work who is not associated with their current institution, who comments on the significance of the work program set out in the submitted papers or abstracts.
• If the candidate is not the sole author of a paper submitted, she/he must be the first author and the manuscript must be accompanied by a letter from the co-authors attesting to the applicants lead role in the investigation described in the manuscript.
• The research work of the applicant must have been performed predominantly in Australasia.
• An electronic copy of the application or 4 printed copies of each application should be sent to the Executive Officer and must include the relevant publications. Page proofs are acceptable. If the work is 'in press' written documentation of final acceptance must be supplied.

Judging:

The Obesity Society Young Investigator Award is made by a sub-committee of Council consisting of the President (unless a conflict of interest occurs), and 2 other nominated members.

The award is judged on the quality of the selected publication, the research history, publication output and the commendations from their mentor and referee.

The sub-committee has a duty to apply the criteria equitably to all applicants.


Conditions:

The value of the Award consists of a cash prize of $2,000.  

The award will be presented at a special session of the Annual Scientific Meeting, which the awardee is expected to attend and give a brief presentation.

2009 Applications will open in June, and should be sent to:  

Dr Tim Gill
Executive Officer, Obesity Society
NSW Centre for Public Health Nutrition
Medical Foundation Building K25 
University of Sydney NSW 2006.

Further Information

• Award Recipients