The New Phytologist Medal will be awarded annually in recognition of an outstanding contribution to research in plant science by an individual in the early stages of their career. The winner will receive a prize of £2000 and the successful article will be published in New Phytologist, which will be accompanied by a comment from the Editor-in-Chief. Applications should be received by 15 June 2009.

Selection procedure
Selection will include a two-stage process that is based on a research manuscript intended for publication.

First round
Submit an extended abstract (1000 words, with 1–2 figures) that describes (1) the research conducted, including the rationale, (2) methods, (3) key results and (4) the main conclusion, including key points of discussion. This abstract should be submitted along with your curriculum vitae, and a supporting statement from a scientist who has agreed to act as a referee for your application, usually your group leader (please include their contact details).

Please go to the Tansley Medal Submission page to upload your application files. Submission should be made by June 15th 2009.

Second round
Successful applicants will be notified by July 15th 2009 and asked to submit their work as a full research article no later than August 31st 2009. These articles will be reviewed by members of the New Phytologist Editorial board, and the winner announced by December 2009.

Rules

1. This is a global competition open to all plant scientists in the early stages of their career and includes both student and post-doctoral researchers with up to five years experience since gaining their PhD.

2. Where the papers are multi-authored the entrant must have contributed 60% or more of the experimental work and have been primarily responsible for the preparation of the paper. The applicant’s referee should confirm this in his/her supporting statement.

3. The first round will be judged by Professors Ian Woodward (Sheffield, UK) and Alistair Hetherington (Bristol, UK).

4. The full research papers submitted for the second round will be considered by members of the New Phytologist Editorial and Advisory board, whose international expertise spans all aspects of plant science.