Research Rock Star Awards
Research Rock Star Award
Inspired by the Diamond Doc Awards that recognize clinical excellence, these awards shine a spotlight on research excellence across UC Davis School of Medicine. They celebrate individuals whose work, leadership, and ideas are shaping the future of science. By recognizing outstanding contributors from across research domains, the awards both honor those pushing the boundaries of discovery and inspire the next generation of researchers to aim higher.
Nominations open for 2026 Research Rock Star Awards
The School of Medicine Office of Research is now accepting nominations for the Research Rock Star Awards, an initiative that recognizes the individuals powering discovery across our research community.
These awards celebrate excellence across the research mission, honoring faculty, staff, trainees and teams whose work advances innovation across the School of Medicine.
Award Categories
Nominations are being accepted in the following categories:
Trainee Award: Recognizing exceptional research contributions from students, residents, fellows and postdoctoral researchers.
Mentor Award: Celebrating exemplary mentorship that fosters the growth of future researchers.
Basic Science Award: Honoring groundbreaking work in fundamental research.
Clinical/Translational Research Award: Recognizing impactful research bridging the gap between laboratory science and clinical applications.
Population/Community Research Award: Celebrating innovative research addressing population health or community health needs.
Research Staff Award: Honoring administrative and technical professionals who support and advance research excellence.
Team Science: Recognizing collaborative research conducted by teams.
Award Amount
Each awardee will receive:
- $1,000 prize ($2000 for Team Science Award)
- Commemorative award plaque
Important Dates
- Nomination deadline: August 15, 2026
- Winners announced: During School of Medicine Research Celebration (October)
How to Nominate
Submit a nomination and review full eligibility and criteria:
Help us recognize the researchers, mentors, and teams driving discovery across UC Davis.
Submit your nominations today and shine a spotlight on research excellence.