Purpose

The Michael S. Avidan Award for Mentorship in Science recognizes outstanding individuals who have shown exceptional mentorship qualities, guiding and inspiring the next generation of anesthesia researchers. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional mentoring abilities, fostering the academic, professional, and personal growth of their mentees. Nominees should have a proven track record of guiding mentees to achieve their goals, whether through successful research projects, publications, or significant career milestones.

This award honors IARS Board Emeritus Dr. Michael S. Avidan, a preeminent figure in anesthesiology, widely celebrated not only for his clinical research but specifically for his lifelong, exceptional dedication to developing young physician-scientists.

Eligibility

1. Professional Expertise: The recipient must have a minimum of 10 years of experience in anesthesia research, showcasing significant contributions to the field through published research, impactful presentations, or the development of innovative treatments and methodologies that advance the discipline.
2. Mentorship Excellence: This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional mentoring abilities, fostering the academic, professional, and personal growth of their mentees. Nominees should have a proven track record of guiding mentees to achieve their goals, whether through successful research projects, publications, or significant career milestones.
3. Inclusivity and Diversity: The recipient should exhibit a strong commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in anesthesia research. This includes active efforts to support and uplift underrepresented groups within the field, promoting equitable opportunities and representation.
4. Innovation in Mentorship: Nominees should demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to mentorship, incorporating innovative practices such as fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, employing novel teaching methods, or leveraging emerging technologies to enhance the mentoring process.
5. Community Impact: This criterion highlights contributions that extend beyond the recipient’s immediate institution or organization. Nominees should actively participate in mentoring efforts that benefit the broader anesthesia research community and engage in outreach or public education to advance awareness and understanding of anesthesia research.
6. Ethical Standards: The recipient must exemplify the highest ethical standards in both research and mentorship, serving as a role model for integrity and professionalism in their interactions and contributions to the field.
7. Nominees must be members of IARS.

Award Benefits

• Complimentary registration to our next Annual Meeting.
• Travel support, including complimentary hotel room (up to 4 nights) at the meeting hotel and round-trip coach airfare, up to $1,500 value.
• Formal recognition during the meeting, on the IARS website and newsletter.

Application Requirements

Applications Open: October 1, 2026

Application Deadline: December 1, 2026

View the Application Form

Applicants must submit the following by December 1, 2026:

1. Completed application form.
2. Curriculum Vitae: Submit a current CV or Resume.
3. Personal Statement: A personal statement outlining the nominee’s mentorship philosophy and approach (max 1000 words).
4. Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from current or former mentees, highlighting the nominee’s mentorship impact.
5. Supporting Documents: Evidence of mentorship and contributions to the field (e.g., list of mentees, successful projects, publications).

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on:

• Alignment with award purpose and eligibility.
• Demonstrated potential for impact in the field.

Terms & Conditions

• Award recipients must attend the Annual Meeting in person.
• Travel and registration arrangements will be coordinated by working with IARS Staff.
• By accepting the award, recipients agree to be recognized in IARS communications.

Award Presentation

Annually at the IARS President’s Lecture, held during the IARS Annual Meeting, marking it as a top honor for exceptional mentors in this field.