It's that time of the year again: the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), the world's largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals, is seeking entries for its annual film festival. The event, which helps build awareness of brain health and brain disorders, demonstrates the importance of neuroscience research and inspires young people to pursue careers in the field.

Last year's winners included the story of a neurologist whose life changed in unexpected ways after she developed primary lateral sclerosis, a teenager who was inspired to learn more about the brain after her grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, a woman with brain cancer who ran seven marathons on seven continents in seven days to raise money for her disease, and the intersection between research and clinical practice.

This year's event has four categories—four different ways to win. The Grand Prize winner in each category will receive $1,000. Pick from among one of these categories.

1. Why I Think Neuroscience Is... Cool™ is open to teenagers only (ages 13 to 17) and encourages them to talk about why the brain is fascinating.

2. Why I Think Neuroscience Is... Rewarding™  is designed for undergraduate and graduate students, medical students, and residents, and allows them to explain how research and discovery open doors.

3. Why I Think Neuroscience Is... Essential™  is an opportunity for patients, families, and caregivers to talk about why research is so important.

4. Why I Think Neuroscience Is... Critical™  is for patient groups, advocates, and neurology professionals to demonstrate how advocacy makes a difference.

How to Enter

Review the contest rules at NeuroFilmFestival.com. Once you've read the rules, make a five-minute video with one of the four "Why I Think Neuroscience Is..." phrases. You can say it, put it in text, or use a voiceover. Once you complete your video, upload it to YouTube, Vimeo, or Dropbox, where the file can be downloaded, and fill out the official entry form.

All accepted video entries will be placed on the Neuro Film Festival YouTube channel for everyone to view.

Share on Social Media

Be sure to share your video with family and friends, like the Neuro Film Festival on Facebook, and use #NeuroFilmFestival in your social media posts.

Important Details

The deadline for all video submissions is March 2, 2018 at 11:59 ET. The contest is open to legal residents of the United States only.

Winners will be contacted in April and announced at the AAN Annual Meeting in Los Angeles, April 21 through 27.