IYNA-Alzheimer's Association
Ideathon 2026
The 2026 IYNA Ideathon is a virtual neuroscience competition for high school and college students. This year's theme, in partnership with the Alzheimer's Association, focuses on neurodegeneration. It runs from Feb 1–Mar 28, with finalists competing live on Mar 28.
Competitior Registration › Judge & Mentor Registration › Learn More ›Program Timeline
Jan 08
2026
Applications Close
Participants can submit their applications to register for the Ideathon.
Dec 13 & 20
2025
Informational Sessions
About the Ideathon structure, goals, timeline, and how to prepare. Learn about expectations and available resources.
Jan 15
2026
Team Assignments Released
Participants will receive their team assignments along with contact information for their fellow team members.
Feb 01
2026
Opening Ceremony & Competition Begins
Introduction to IYNA and Alzheimer's Association, release of prompts, guidelines, and logistics. Two-week competition period begins.
Feb 15
2026
Proposal Due
Participants must submit their written proposal to be considered for advancement to the Final Round.
Mar 08
2026
Finalists Announced
The Top 10 teams from the High School and Undergraduate Divisions will be announced and contacted with Final Round details.
Mar 28
2026
Final Round
Live presentation round for finalist teams. Evaluated by a distinguished judging panel. Open to the public.
Workshops & Events Schedule
February 2, 2026
Lecture 1 – Overview of Neurodegeneration
A broad overview of the current landscape, latest research, and clinical challenges in neurodegeneration.
February 3, 2026
Proposal Writing Seminar 1 – Starting Out
Guidance through the early stages of drafting proposals. Learn how to approach research and structure initial ideas.
February 4, 2026
Q&A Session with Ideathon Staff
Ask Ideathon volunteers specific questions about the rules, process, and proposal development to clarify concerns or challenges.
February 5, 2026
Lecture 2 – Methodology in Studying Neurodegeneration
Overview of methods in studying neurodegeneration, including both basic and computational techniques, tools, and experiment designs.
February 6, 2026
Lecture 3 – Scientific Communication
Approaches and strategies for structuring ideas and crafting clear, succinct, and compelling narratives as part of scientific writing.
February 7, 2026
Research Panel
Hear from a panel of exciting researchers in neurodegeneration about their work!
February 8, 2026
Lecture 4 – Scientific Communication
Approaches and strategies for structuring ideas and crafting clear, succinct, and compelling narratives as part of scientific writing.
February 9, 2026
Lecture 5 – Ethics in Neurodegeneration Research
Overview of ethical considerations such as data handling, animal research guidelines, and patient consent in neurodegenerative studies.
February 10, 2026
Social Event
A casual social event designed to help participants bond with their teammates and other teams. Activities include games and team-building exercises.
February 11, 2026
Proposal Writing Seminar 2 – Putting on Final Touches
A follow-up seminar that helps teams refine their proposals, offering tips on how to finalize ideas, present research, and meet all Ideathon requirements.
February 12-14, 2026
Proposal Office Hours
Teams can sign up for 15-minute feedback sessions with facilitators for personalized advice and constructive criticism on their proposals before submission.
Have Questions About the 2026 Ideathon?
Join us to learn more about the Ideathon structure, timeline, competition benefits, and how to get involved.
The IYNA will be hosting two live information sessions via Zoom.
Eligibility & Structure
Eligibility
- Divisions: High School and Undergraduate
- Team Size: 1–3 members
- Language: English only, one fluent speaker required
- Requirements: Zoom access, Reliable internet, Full participation
Structure and Information
- Platforms: Zoom, Google Classroom, Discord
- Support: Mentorship, feedback, expert guidance
- Contact: Email: ideathon@youthneuro.org, Discord: #ideathon-questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I register for the Ideathon?
A: Register at this link.
Q: Where can I ask questions and learn more about the Ideathon?
A: Attend one of our Informational Sessions on December 13 and December 20.
Q: What workshops and programming will be offered throughout the event?
A: Workshops will be held from February 1 to February 11, 2026, covering a range of topics. Leading experts in neurodegeneration will provide an overview of the field, along with insights into research methodologies, scientific communication skills, and ethical considerations in neurodegeneration studies. Additionally, the IYNA team will conduct information sessions and writing seminars.
Q: Can you provide more detailed information on what the proposal will be about?
A: Research proposals should address a prompt to be revealed at the Ideathon's opening ceremony on February 1, 2026, where detailed requirements will also be provided. The theme for this year is neurodegeneration. Proposals must be 5 pages at maximum and adhere to the designated template, which includes sections for introduction, methodology, hypothesized results, discussion, and conclusion.
Q: How will proposals be judged?
A: Proposals will first be evaluated based on completeness and quality to select the Top 10 submissions in each division, following the criteria outlined in this rubric. The Top 10 teams will advance to the live presentation, Final Round.
Q: What sorts of prizes will be awarded to participants?
A: The prize pool includes thousands of dollars in cash awards as well as special honors from our partner science companies. Details will be revealed at the Opening Ceremony. Additionally, the Ideathon Award of Excellence will be granted to the Top 20% of proposals.
Q: What is the duration of the Ideathon?
A: February 1 - March 28. See timeline above for specifics.
Q: Do I need to be proficient in English?
A: Yes, all programming will be in English. We hope to accommodate non-English speakers as the program evolves.
Q: Who can participate in the Ideathon?
A: We have high school and undergraduate tracks. Please see the following question if you are interested in participating as a graduate student or above.
Q: How can I participate if I am a graduate student or above?
A: The IYNA is seeking judges/mentors who are graduate students, and post-docs to evaluate preliminary research proposals and support the next generation of neuroscience innovators. Selected judges will receive additional details closer to the event and must attend a training session. This role requires an 8-12 hour commitment to judging proposals. To apply, please complete this brief form.
Q: Is it necessary to be an IYNA member to participate?
A: Yes! Please register as an IYNA member at the registration link above.
Q: Is there a monetary cost to participate in the Ideathon?
A: No, there is no cost.
Q: Which online platforms will be used for workshops and submissions?
A: Zoom, Google Classroom, Discord
Q: Where can I ask questions during the event?
A: IYNA Discord, #ideathon-questions channel or email ideathon@youthneuro.org.
Awards and Recognition
| Award | Prize |
|---|---|
| Prize Pool | Thousands in Cash Awards |
| Special Honors | Partner Science Companies |
| Ideathon Award of Excellence | Top 20% of Proposals |
Sponsorship Information
Past Winners
CLINICAL SCIENCE
1st: Chloe Hansel
Title: Does Focused Ultrasound Enhance A Amyloid-β-Based Alzheimer's Therapy?
PUBLIC HEALTH
1st: Ting Qiu
Title: Chronic Posttraumatic Stress Among Caregivers during COVID-19
BASIC SCIENCE
1st: Ananya Sathvik
Title: Neural Mechanisms of Object Recognition
LARGEST POTENTIAL IMPACT
1st: Chloe Hansel
Title: Does Focused Ultrasound Enhance A Amyloid-β-Based Alzheimer's Therapy?
CLINICAL SCIENCE
1st: Chloe Hansel, Lily Hua and Asra Ali
Title: "Alzheimer's Disease: Memory, Mechanistic Approaches, Social Justice"
Annika Romele
Finding better mechanisms for neural regeneration: An analysis of axon growth cones
Kendall Bristol, Carson Bauer, Mycah Afra, Cooper Branch
Growing new neurons the old-fashioned way: neurogenesis in the mature brain
Pristine Garay
Exploring the range of the amygdala's role in emotional intelligence and its effect on human cognitive abilities and social skills
Victoria Stanislawska, Aleksandra Dubno
Use of AI in Brain Computer Interfaces for the rehabilitation and assistance of paralyzed patients