CogSci Mind Challenge - 2026 Call for Proposals

About this program

The Cognitive Science Society is soliciting one-page proposals for the CogSci Mind Challenge 2026, a science-communication competition to produce concise (≤5 minute) media (e.g., short video, podcast, animation, skit, visual explainer) that explain an original cognitive‑science question to junior-high, high‑school, and undergraduate students; semifinalists receive $100 to produce their final piece and three equal winners receive $500 each. Proposals (max one page/1,000 words) must state the proposed question, why it matters for the target audience, creative format and how the idea will be communicated clearly and accurately in five minutes, accessibility and inclusion measures, sources/scientific-accuracy safeguards, and a brief 60‑day production plan; upload via the Society’s portal with lead contact, affiliation, team members (if any), project title and agreement to the challenge rules by the proposal deadline, August 26, 2026 (11:59 PM AoE). Applicants must be 18 or older (groups may apply with a designated lead), submit original unpublished work, obtain signed releases for anyone appearing in media, and ensure final submissions are accessible, non‑discriminatory and compliant with all requirements; proposals will be judged on relevance to cognitive science, accuracy, educational value, audience fit, creativity, feasibility, accessibility/inclusion, and originality.