Victor Cohn Prize for Excellence in Medical Science Reporting

The Victor Cohn Prize, established by the Council for the Advancement of Science Writing (CASW) in 2000, recognizes a writer whose work has made a profound and lasting contribution to public understanding of medical science. The award honors reporting that stands out for its clarity, accuracy, originality, insight, and narrative power, deepening public awareness of critical advances in medicine and their impact on human health and well-being. Beginning in 2023, the prize is underwritten by Michelson Philanthropies, a Los Angeles–based foundation supporting medical research, education equity, and animal welfare.

Award Details

  • Prize amount: $5,000

  • Includes: Certificate of recognition and covered travel to the awards ceremony

  • Presented at: ScienceWriters, the joint conference of CASW and the National Association of Science Writers (NASW)

  • Honors: A body of work published or broadcast within the past five years

Eligibility

  • Open to journalists covering medical science for the general public.

  • Work must demonstrate excellence in clarity, accuracy, breadth, enterprise, and insight.

  • Eligible entries include print, online, broadcast, or multimedia journalism.

Opportunity offered by:

Council for the Advancement of Science Writing

The Council for the Advancement of Science Writing is committed to improving the quality and quantity of science news reaching the public. Directed and advised by distinguished journalists and scientists,…
Online application form
Opportunity type

Award

Location(s) where available

United States (all)

Maximum grant amount

$5000

Areas of focus

Environment
Health
Mental Health
Science

This is a recurring opportunity