Michael Mason Award

Overview

The Michael Mason Award recognises outstanding clinical or scientific research by an early-stage rheumatology researcher developing a distinctive body of original work.

2026 Michael Mason Award - submissions now open

This prestigious award acknowledges the achievements of early-career researchers whose work is shaping the direction of rheumatology, enhancing their visibility and influence in the field.

Background
Richard Michael Mason (1917-1977) was a renowned clinical rheumatologist who established an associated academic professorial unit in rheumatology, and was instrumental in the development of bone and joint research. He was President of the Heberden Society, President of the British Association of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation and the first President of the re-constituted British League Against Rheumatism from 1973-1977.

FAQs

Why apply?

Receiving the Michael Mason Award showcases your scientific contributions and strengthens your professional reputation. Award recipients enjoy a range of benefits:

Michael Mason  trophy — A symbol of your achievements in rheumatology.
£1,000 prize money — Awarded to support your ongoing research.
Complimentary Annual Conference registration — Join our Annual Conference at no cost.
Plenary presentation opportunity — Present your work during our Annual Conference.
Research publication — Publish your findings in Rheumatology (peer-reviewed).

Eligibility

BSR membership — You must be a current member.
Career stage — Early-stage researchers (within 10 years of completing an MD or PhD). Time adjustments are allowed for career breaks or part-time work.
Position — Open to clinically active consultants or equivalent who are not yet fully established in their research career.
Past winners — Previous award recipients within the last five years are not eligible.


Application process
You must submit: - Full CV - 3-5 published papers on a related subject - An explanation of your contribution to the work - An explanation of how your research contributes to the field Start your Michael Mason Award application here.


Decision-making process
Applications will be assessed by our expert panel, who will consider: Scientific merit and impact Originality and innovation Quality of submission Candidate's contributions and involvement with BSR


Timeline
20 November 2025 - 23 January 2026: Submission period 24 January 2026 - 16 March 2026: Judging and deliberation 17 March 2026: Winners notified 28-30 April 2026: Winners present at Annual Conference

Testimonials

"My research is about understanding why care is suboptimal and developing interventions to improve it for people with osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. I actually applied twice before I got the award and I didn’t think I’d get it. It’s such a fantastic platform to share and promote your research… also for the team that I work with, I think as legitimisation and validation of our research. The application process is relatively straightforward and even if you don't think you're likely to win it, I think absolutely go for it! "

Zoe Paskins, 2024 Michael Mason Award Winner

Rheumatology Consultant and Professor of Rheumatology, Keele University

"This award is an encouragement for me to continue to pursue my research objectives. I advise anyone interested in applying to go for it, you have nothing to lose. "

Prof Pedro Machado, 2023 Michael Mason Award Winner

Professor and Consultant Rheumatologist , University College London (UCL)

Michael Mason Award

Overview

The Michael Mason Award recognises outstanding clinical or scientific research by an early-stage rheumatology researcher developing a distinctive body of original work.