Synapsy Prize for Mental Health Research
© 2025 EPFL
The Synapsy Prize for Mental Health Research honours outstanding contributions to the neurobiology of mental disorders. It recognises researchers whose work has significantly advanced scientific knowledge, innovation, or clinical and societal impact.
The prize is awarded biennially to mid- or advanced career researchers nominated by peers—individuals, institutions, or organisations. Self-nominations are not accepted.
The award includes:
A monetary prize of 50,000 CHF.
A commemorative plaque.
A fully funded invitation to present research in Geneva at the Award Ceremony and Masterclass.
Nominations open on April 15, 2025
Nomination Process
Nominations are open to all experimented members of the scientific community, subject to eligibility verification. Self-nominations are not accepted.
A nomination must include:
A summary of the candidate’s key scientific achievements and current research.
A concise statement of their most significant contribution.
A brief explanation of the candidate’s impact beyond their field, including mentoring activities.
A list of other potential candidates for the award.
If possible, a CV and a list of publications.
Evaluation Criteria
The selection committee will assess nominees based on:
Scientific contributions and originality.
Impact on their field and the broader scientific community.
Ethical conduct and leadership qualities.
Relevance to advancing knowledge within the field.
Selection Committee
The Synapsy Prize Committee oversees the nomination, evaluation, and selection process, ensuring transparency, fairness, and adherence to the highest scientific standards.
The committee consists of 7 to 9 members, including experts in neuroscience and clinical research, representatives from the Synapsy Network and potential external advisors and/or a patient representative.
2025 Selection Committee
Chairman: Prof. Christian Lüscher (UNIGE)
Prof. Jocelyne Bloch (UNIL/CHUV)
Prof. Manuel Mameli (UNIL)
Prof. Johannes Graeff (EPFL)
Prof. Carmen Sandi (EPFL)
Prof. Camilla Bellone (UNIGE)
Prof. Stefan Kaiser (UNIGE/HUG)
Me Hrant Hovagemyan (Cabinet Wingslaw)
A patient association representative (TBD)