Entries have now closed. Thank you to all applicants for submitting their abstracts.

The UK Biobank Scientific Conference 2025 will see the launch of our Scientific Impact Awards, celebrating individuals and teams whose research is driving meaningful change in health through the innovative use of UK Biobank data. 

The judges will be looking for entries that showcase excellence in data-driven science through advanced methods, insightful analysis or by applying findings to clinical or policy settings.

Applications should also demonstrate how open, responsible research can improve prevention, treatment and healthcare delivery in the UK and beyond. 

Applicants at all career stages are welcome, including students and early career researchers.

Entries have now closed. Thank you to all applicants for submitting their abstracts. The top three entries will be invited to present their work at the internationally attended UK Biobank Scientific Conference and up to 20 entries will be selected to present a poster.

The winner will receive a UK Biobank Impact Award and £1,000, and two runners up will each receive £500.

Impact areas

Judges will be looking for entries that showcase excellence in one or more of the following impact areas:

  • Health innovation and translation

    For research that has led to new approaches in diagnosis, treatment, or prevention -especially where findings have influenced clinical practice or public health.

    Examples: early detection methods, risk prediction tools, novel therapeutic pathways.

  • Data and methodology advancement

    For researchers who have developed or applied novel analytical techniques that improve how population data is interpreted, validated, or visualised—pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with UK Biobank’s resources.

    Examples: machine learning applications in phenotype prediction, advanced causal inference models, integration of multi-modal data (genetic, imaging, wearable tech), or scalable pipelines for high-throughput analysis.

  • Policy and public impact

    For work that has informed or influenced health policy, service delivery, or resource allocation, particularly by translating data into actionable insights for government or public bodies.

    Examples: studies shaping NHS strategy, screening guidelines, or population-level interventions.

Entry requirements

  • Research must be based significantly on UK Biobank data through a UK Biobank research project (e.g., genetic, phenotypic, imaging, and/or linked health records).
  • Individuals or teams can apply; interdisciplinary or collaborative projects are welcome.
  • The nominated work must have been conducted within the last 5 years and demonstrate measurable or emerging impact.
  • Open to academic researchers, healthcare professionals, or industry collaborators.

Assessment criteria

Submissions will be evaluated on how well they meet one or more of the following:

  • Impact: Evidence of improved health outcomes, influence on policy, clinical application, or public engagement.
  • Innovation: Use of novel methodologies or technologies that advance analysis and interpretation of UK Biobank data.
  • Scientific rigour: High-quality research design, transparency, reproducibility, and peer recognition.
  • Communication of impact: Demonstrated efforts to share findings with stakeholders, the public, or the broader scientific community in accessible and meaningful ways.

How are winners selected?

Entries are now closed.
Winners will be notified by 20 November. Good luck!

Entries may be relevant to one or more of the award impact areas — Health Innovation and Translation, Data and Methodology Advancement, or Policy and Public Impact.

However, awards are not issued per impact area. Instead, all submissions are considered equally, and final honours will be selected from the full pool.

We will recognise one overall winner and two runners-up, chosen for the strength of their scientific impact.

All judges decisions will be final.