https://www.brainfacts.org/for-educators/programs-and-events/bavc-rules-and-guidelines  

Why the Brain Awareness Video Contest Is One to Bookmark — And Why I Hope It Returns in 2026

Every year, the Brain Awareness Video Contest (BAVC), hosted by BrainFacts and the Society for Neuroscience (SfN), brings together creativity, science communication, and global curiosity in a way few competitions manage to do. Since its launch in 2011, the contest has highlighted more than 100 engaging, imaginative videos that make the mysteries of the brain feel accessible, exciting, and fun. And the 2025 contest has proven once again why this program deserves a spot on anyone’s radar.

A Celebration of Creativity and Neuroscience

The BAVC invites entrants to craft short, captivating videos that explain neuroscience concepts or showcase brain-related activities. What makes this contest truly special is the blend of education and entertainment: entrants use storytelling, humor, animation, lab demonstrations, and inventive visuals to transform complex topics into something anyone can enjoy.

This year’s winners are a testament to that creative spirit:

• First Place & People’s Choice: “Something to Savor: The Neuroscience of Flavor” by Gina Rizzo, Allison George, Diana Guarino & Lindsey Czarnecki

• Second Place: “The Shape of Our Memories” by Yewon Jun

• Third Place: “The Caffeine Conundrum” by Andi Liu

These videos don’t just teach — they captivate. They highlight the sensory richness of flavor, the sculpting nature of memory, and the everyday fascination of caffeine. And they do it with clarity and creativity.

Why This Contest Matters

The BAVC serves several important purposes:

• It advances public understanding of neuroscience in a way that feels fun rather than complicated.

• It encourages young scientists, students, and educators to practice high-impact science communication.

• It promotes creative expression within STEM, offering an unconventional platform for scientific storytelling.

• It builds a vibrant archive of engaging educational content—one that keeps growing as BrainFacts continues to publish entries throughout the year.

With prizes ranging from $250 to $4,000—and complimentary registration to Neuroscience 2025 in San Diego for the first-place winners—the contest honors both the craft and commitment behind each submission.

Tips That Show What Makes a Winning Entry

BrainFacts provides helpful guidance, and the advice alone is worth reviewing if you’re thinking ahead:

• Be professional: polish your video, check lighting and audio, and secure permissions.

• Be concise: keep it short—most viewers drop off after the three-minute mark.

• Know your audience: write for clarity, not complexity.

• Be entertaining: humor, creativity, and smart pacing go a long way.

• Be unique: quirky facts, unexpected approaches, and fresh ideas stand out.

These tips make the contest not just a competition, but a learning opportunity for anyone passionate about communicating science.

Worth Following — And Worth Bringing Back in 2026

This contest is genuinely exciting, inspiring, and filled with potential for both participants and viewers. The variety of videos released year after year makes it something worth bookmarking and checking back on as new entries go live.

And honestly? I’m hoping they renew it for 2026. With the momentum, talent, and enthusiasm on display in the 2025 contest, it would be a loss not to keep the tradition going. It’s the kind of program that encourages curiosity and strengthens the bridge between science and storytelling — something the world always needs more of.

Until we hear news of the next edition, this is absolutely a contest worth following, revisiting, and keeping on your radar.