The Sternfels Prize was created to reduce the risk associated with the real-world use of pharmaceuticals. The purpose of the prize is to incentivize pharmacologists, pharmacists, medical practitioners, academics, and students to think about ways to reduce the real world risks patients face from polypharmacy, interacting co-morbidities, and genetic variations.

The prize is awarded to the most novel, clinically relevant, and testable idea to reduce life threatening drug-drug, drug-disease, or pharmacogenomic interactions. All submissions must be the applicant’s own work and not already be adequately addressed on an existing drug label or in a scholarly work. The winning submission will receive $35,000 (USD).

The Sternfels Prize is named in honor of Edith and Ernst Sternfels. Ernst was an engineer involved in the design and construction of chemical plants around the world, including many involved in the synthesis of life-improving molecules. Edith was a nurse, dedicated to the welfare and treatment of patients. Together, they represent the breadth of modern medicine, from highly technical science to personal attention and care.

All entries are kept in confidence and remain the property of the applicant and/or their institution. The 2022 competition is underwritten by Emerald Lake Safety.

COVID Research

Any COVID-related research proposals must still be relevant to patient safety

Prize

The winner will receive a $35,000 cash award for having the best idea based on its clinical relevance, testability, and originality

Depending on the applicant's interest, the Prize Committee may be able to arrange funding of clinical studies related to an idea

The top 30 applicants will receive their choice of a FREE iPAD or APPLE WATCH. Click here to learn more

Deadline

All submissions are due by January 31, 2022. All entries submitted by December 15, 2021 will receive critical feedback and a chance to resubmit

Judges

A panel of renowned judges will determine the winner based on the Prize's stated criteria