David Burgess Award for Excellence in Inclusivity

About the Award

Nominations/Applications for all 2026 awards are now closed.

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The American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB) presents the David Burgess Award for Excellence in Inclusivity to recognize a scientist with a track record of excellence in research, or a professional who plays a critical role in fostering cell biology research, and who has demonstrated a commitment to inclusion and diversity in science through mentoring, cultural change, outreach, or community service.

The award also honors David Burgess’ contributions to our understanding of the cytoskeleton and cytokinesis and his work to advance diversity and inclusion in science.

This award is made possible by an endowment from the Burgess Family.

2025 Award Winner: Bruno da Rocha Azevedo

Award Details

The recipient will be invited to give a virtual award talk, be recognized during the Keynote Session at the annual Cell Bio meeting, and receive complimentary registration to the meeting. They will also be presented with a plaque, and a $3,000 prize to be used at their discretion to support future inclusivity activities.

Who is Eligible

An ASCB member who has a strong track record in research or a professional who serves a critical role in fostering cell biology and related life sciences research who has made an impact by encouraging a diverse workforce and creating an inclusive environment through mentoring, cultural change, outreach, or community service.

Selection Criteria

• Candidate’s contributions to cell biology research
• Candidate’s demonstrated commitment to ASCB’s vision and values, especially diversity, equity, and inclusion

How to Apply

Candidates may either self-apply or be nominated.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

If nominating someone

1. Letter describing the candidate’s background, contributions, and qualifications for receiving the award, no longer than 2 pages.
2. Letter of support also describing the above, no longer than 2 pages.

If self-applying, or once nominated

1. Narrative statement describing your background, contributions, qualifications for receiving the award, and demonstrated commitment to ASCB’s values, no longer than 2 pages.
2. A letter of support endorsing your application, no longer than 2 pages.
3. Biosketch (NIH format or similar) no longer than 5 pages.

Please Note

1. ASCB wants to ensure that the pool of award candidates is as diverse and inclusive as possible. The demographic questions are for internal reporting only and are not viewable by award reviewers. The questions are not mandatory, however we would appreciate your responses so that we can assess our level of inclusivity.
2. As a founder of the Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) ASCB does not use journal impact factors or other journal-based metrics in the evaluation process for its awards. ASCB looks at an individual’s research contributions and impact on the field, rather than the prestige of the journals where work is published.

All Recent Awardee Photos