ASV 2026 Social Media Video Abstract Competition

Got research worth sharing? Show the world in 90 seconds or less.

The ASV Communications Committee is launching the first-ever Social Media Video Abstract
Competition for ASV 2026. Create a short, engaging video that brings your research to life for a
broad audience — and compete for cash prizes.

  

Why We're Doing This

  
Virology research matters, and the public deserves to hear about it — directly from the scientists doing the work. This competition is designed to:
  • Amplify your science: Reach audiences beyond the conference hall by sharing your research on social media in an accessible, engaging format.
  • Build ASV's public presence: Every submission strengthens ASV's voice on social media and helps the virology community connect with the broader public.
  • Grow the next generation of science communicators: We want to find early career virologists with a talent for public engagement and invite them to help shape ASV's communications going forward.
  

Who Can Enter

  

The competition is open to anyone whose abstract has been accepted for ASV 2026. Flash talk,
standard talk, and poster abstracts are all eligible. Invited speakers are not eligible.

Early career trainees — undergraduates, postbacs, graduate students, and postdoctoral scholars
— are especially encouraged to submit.

  

How Submissions Are Evaluated

  

At least three volunteers from the ASV Communications Committee will review all entries using a standardized rubric. Videos will be scored on three dimensions:

  1. Scientific Communication — Does the video clearly convey the research question, key findings, and how the work advances the field?
  2. Accessibility — Is the content understandable to someone without a science background? Does it use clear language, relatable visuals, or storytelling to make the science approachable?
  3. Engagement — Does the video grab the viewer's attention? Is the presenter enthusiastic? Is the production creative and polished?

Winners will receive their awards at a session during ASV 2026 and will be featured on ASV social media channels.

Prizes:

  • 1st Place: $1,000
  • 2nd Place: $500
  • 3rd Place: $250
  • Honorable Mention (×5): $50 each
  

Deadline

  

All entries must be posted by July 13, 2026 — two weeks before the start of ASV 2026. You may submit as soon as your abstract has been accepted.

  

How to Submit

  
 
  1. Create a video (90 seconds or less) summarizing the research in your accepted abstract. Make it accessible to a lay audience — think clear language, strong visuals, and a compelling hook.
  2. Post your video on any of the following platforms: BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, or YouTube
  3. Include the hashtag #ASV2026videoabstract in your post so our reviewers can find your entry.
  4. Submit your entry information here to make sure we don’t miss it: https://forms.gle/muqDAf8CZZXJj7gC6

That's it —post it, tag it, send us your handle/link, and you're in.

  

Questions?

  

Contact the ASV Communications Committee at [email protected]. Keep an eye on ASV social media channels for tips, inspiration, and updates as the competition approaches.