The Frances and Kenneth Eisenberg Research Prize recognizes a world-renowned scientist for breakthrough research accomplishments that advance our understanding of mental health and well-being, and for translating discoveries into impactful policies and practices.

This $50,000 prize supports outstanding researchers affiliated with an academic or clinical research institution and honors work marked by innovative strategies, scientific rigor, and interdisciplinary partnerships. This unrestricted prize can be used at the sole discretion of the recipient for the support of their research program. 

The nomination period for the 2026 Eisenberg Research Prize has ended. We are in the process of reviewing all the submissions and will notify all applicants of their status by May 31, 2026.

Prize details

  • Award amount: $50,000, unrestricted
  • Nomination deadline: May 1, 2026
  • Disbursement: Awarded in-person in Ann Arbor, MI, in early November 2026 (date TBD) 
  • Travel: The awardee will be reimbursed for reasonable travel expenses  

Eligibility requirements

Nominees must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Hold an M.D., Ph.D., other terminal degree, or equivalent international degrees
  • Be affiliated with an academic or clinical research institution
  • Have a demonstrated research track record showing scientific rigor, innovative thinking, and translational impact
  • Must attend the award presentation ceremony in-person in Ann Arbor, MI, in early November 2026 (Date TBD)

Additional eligibility information: 

  • International candidates are eligible 
  • Self-nomination is permitted 
  • If the candidate is external to the University of Michigan, they must devote 1–2 days as a visiting professor with a special in-person lecture in Ann Arbor, MI, in early November 2026 

Past winners include: 

  • Helen S. Mayberg, M.D., founding director of The Nash Family Center for Advanced Circuit Therapeutics, Mount Sinai Health System
  • Kerry J. Ressler, M.D., Ph.D., chief scientific officer and Patricia Poitras Chair in Psychiatry at McLean Hospital, and professor of psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
  • Karl Deisseroth, M.D., Ph.D., D.H. Chen Professor of Bioengineering and of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University 

Questions?

If you have any questions, please email Karen Dugas, Research Innovation Core manager. 

This award is made possible through the generous support of the Frances and Kenneth Eisenberg Research Prize.