PLOS announces award programme to accelerate science

PLOS, the Public Library of Science, has launched the Accelerating Science Award Program (ASAP) to recognise the use of scientific research, published through open access, which has led to innovations in any field that benefit society.

The programme recognises individuals who have used, applied or remixed scientific research to innovate and make a difference in science, medicine, business, technology or society as a whole.  Potential nominees include individuals, teams or groups of collaborators such as scientists, researchers, educators, technology leaders, entrepreneurs, policy makers, patient advocates, public health workers, and students. There are three top awards of $30,000 each.

The programme also aspires to encourage a new generation of individuals to embrace the use and application of scientific research published through open access­.

'PLOS is delighted to collaborate with two dozen global organisations to highlight the impact that open access research has on science, medicine and society,' said Gary Ward, chairman of the PLOS board. 'We know there are countless examples of individuals who have used open access research to accelerate science but these stories often go untold.  Through this program, we hope to bring them to the forefront.'

The ASAP Program will be judged by an international committee composed of distinguished leaders in multiple fields.

'We are proud to sponsor the ASAP Program, and in doing so, recognise those who have maximised the impact of scientific research published through open access, said Robert Kiley, head of digital services at the Wellcome Trust, one of the major sponsors. 'We are eager to see real case studies that showcase the unique value of open access and, through these stories, inspire greater support for open access.'

Three top awards of $30,000 each will be presented.  The nomination period is open from 1 May to 15 June, 2013.  Winners will be announced in Washington, DC in October 2013, at an Open Access Week kickoff event hosted by SPARC and the World Bank.