AJB Synthesis Papers and Prize

The AJB Synthesis Papers and Prize is a programme of the American Journal of Botany and the Botanical Society of America that invites early-career scientists to submit proposals to write single-authored synthesis articles (max. 3,000 words) summarizing and synthesizing a focal research area. Selected applicants are invited to submit full Synthesis papers for peer review and publication; papers published in fall 2026 through spring 2027 will be eligible for the AJB Synthesis Prize. One published paper will receive a $2,000 cash prize.

Invitation to write a Synthesis paper for AJB; peer review and potential publication; eligibility for a $2,000 cash prize for the selected published paper.

Applicants must be within six years of completing their PhD; documented career breaks related to the pandemic or parental/dependent care are not included in the six-year window and should be explained in the cover letter.

Submit a single PDF including CV, one-page cover letter, 250–300 word abstract, and the name of a referee by email to Amy McPherson at ajb@botany.org.