AWARDS

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Young Investigator Award

Eligibility

Applicants must be under 40 years of age at the time of the congress.

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Mentor - Mentee Award

Eligibility

Mentors

• APASL members in good standing.
• Active leaders in hepatology (academic, clinical, or research).
• Commitment to pre- and post-conference mentorship.

Mentees

• Medical students, residents, fellows, or early-career hepatologists (within 10 years of training completion).
• Must be registered for APASL 2026 Istanbul.
• Required documents: CV and 250-word statement of interest.
• Must identify a confirmed mentor at the time of application (including mentor name and affiliation).
• Must be the primary presenter of an original abstract co-developed with the mentor.

Selection Process

• Reviewed by the APASL Steering Committee - Research Team.
• Priority given to early-career applicants and those from underrepresented regions.
• Mentor - mentee pairs submit a joint research abstract.

Program Structure

• Pre-conference orientation to align expectations and provide preparatory resources.
• One-on-one or small-group mentor-mentee interactions during the congress (maximum two mentees per mentor).
• Structured sessions on career pathways in hepatology, case-based discussions, research critique, publication strategies, networking, and leadership.
• Mentor-Mentee Research Presentation Contest, where selected pairs present original research and top presentations are awarded.
• Encouraged joint attendance of at least one APASL scientific session by mentors and mentees, followed by discussion.

Responsibilities

Mentors

• Provide guidance and support throughout the congress
• Assist with research abstract development, critique, and co-presentation when applicable
• Offer career advice, professional insight, and opportunities for continued collaboration

Mentees

• Prepare for sessions with clear goals, questions, or research ideas
• Lead the presentation in the Research Presentation Contest
• Demonstrate understanding of the study's relevance, methodology, and impact
• Maintain professionalism throughout the program
• Submit a short post-conference reflection (optional)

Recognition

• Certificates for all participants.
• Special awards and congress recognition for contest winners.