The RNA Society Moderna Award for Biomedical Innovation in RNA 

The RNA Society Moderna Award for Biomedical Innovation in RNA was established in 2023  to recognize innovative contributions to the use or function of RNA in biomedicine, disease processes, and treatments. The award can be for a single important discovery or for an extended portfolio of work. The basis for the award must be from independent research conducted in the recipient’s laboratory, and the awardee must be within the first 10 years of their independence. 

The awardee will be given the opportunity to give a talk at the RNA Society Annual Meeting, with complimentary registration, hotel and travel and to write a minireview article in RNA. The winner will receive a cash prize of $2,500, an engraved commemorative plaque, a complementary RNA Society membership for one year (including a personal subscription to RNA), and a waiver of all Author Page and Open Access Publication charges associated with publication of a mini-review in RNA. 

  • The applicant must be a current member of the RNA Society.
  • The application must be based on independent research conducted in the recipient’s laboratory.
  • Eligible recipients are within their first 10 years as an independent investigator as of July 1, 2024, although some flexibility of this date can be provided if an atypical and clearly documented life event delayed the applicant’s career.
  • The application includes a brief statement (up to 1000 words) by the applicant explaining how their research has been innovative and/or enabling in biomedical research related to RNA. 
  • Applications for this award will be considered until the 10 year eligibility expires. If eligibility remains in subsequent years, the applicant will be given the opportunity to update the application, but an update will not be required.

Application Process
Both self-nominations and nominations of others are welcome and encouraged. Nominations must include a brief statement explaining how the candidate’s research has been innovative and/or enabling in biomedical research related to RNA, including but not limited to disease processes that involve RNA or therapeutics that are RNA-targeted or RNA-based. Nominations also must include a complete CV of the candidate, and may include an optional letter of support. 

Click here to Apply Online

Application Deadline 
Only completed applications submitted by October 1, 2024 will be considered. 

Further information 
Email [email protected] for any questions about this award

Previous Winners:
Raman Bahal (2024)