2026 INO-NEXUS Essay Contest is live. Submit by May 28, 2026 at 5:00 AM EST. Essay Contest

2026 INO-NEXUS Essay Contest

Hosted by the International Neuroscience Organization (INO), the NEXUS (Neurotechnology and Ethics Exchange for Universal Scholars) Essay Contest is a global competition inviting high-school students to explore the rapidly evolving frontier of brain science.

You can critically analyze breakthroughs, propose future applications, or navigate the moral dilemmas of neuroscience.

Contest Details

All submissions must be received by May 28, 2026 at 5:00 AM EST. Late submissions are not accepted.

Essay Tracks

Neurotechnology AI applications in neuroscience, brain-computer interfaces, neural engineering, and related topics.
Neuroethics Moral implications of neuro-enhancement, algorithmic bias in diagnostics, data privacy, and policy questions.

Awards

Three winning essays will be officially published and showcased on the INO Global platform.

Other top finalists will receive a Certificate of Excellence, and all eligible entrants will receive a Certificate of Recognition.

Submission Guidelines

Formatting Use 11 pt Calibri font.
File Type Submit in .pdf format only. We recommend writing in Google Docs, then use File, Download, Download as PDF.
Formatting Notes You may use indentation and bolding as you like.
Length Essays must be between 500 and 1500 words.
AI Use Use of AI is discouraged.

Form Fields

Required Identity Fields First Name, Last Name, Country, Academic Level, Essay Focus, Essay Title, and PDF upload.
Academic Level Options High School (Grades 9-10), High School (Grades 11-12), Undergraduate, Other.
Essay Focus Options Neurotechnology or AI, Clinical Neurology & Diagnostics, Neuroethics & Policy, Two or more from this list, or Other.
Optional Field Brief Summary is encouraged but not mandatory.

Final Reminder

Please ensure all information is accurate, as it may be used for certificates and potential publication.

Submission deadline: May 28, 2026 at 5:00 AM EST.

Good luck, and most importantly, have fun.