Jeffrey L. Elman Prize for Scientific Achievement and Community Building

About this program

The Cognitive Science Society annually awards the Jeffrey L. Elman Prize to mid‑career cognitive scientists (individuals or teams) whose work exemplifies both scientific excellence and community‑building; the prize includes $30,000, a custom silver medal, a certificate, and a citation and is presented at the Society's Annual Meeting. For the 2026 cycle nominations are open September 18–November 18, 2026, with winners announced in winter and selection overseen by the Jeffrey L. Elman Prize Selection Committee. Nominees should have earned their PhD roughly 15–25 years prior to nomination (career breaks and part‑time employment may be considered) and self‑nominations are not accepted; teams must submit vitae for all members. Required nomination materials are two 2–4 page letters (one emphasizing scientific achievement and one community building), a complete CV, and PDFs of five relevant publications; nominations may be updated and remain eligible for up to three years.