The Institute of Mental Health’s 2022 essay prize for psychiatry trainees is now open.

Each year, in partnership with the Royal College of Psychiatrists, we invite psychiatry trainees nationwide to submit a 1,000-word essay on the theme of:

“The next big thing in psychiatry research.”

In celebration of a leading Nottingham psychiatrist, the annual Duncan Macmillan Essay Prize is an opportunity for trainee psychiatrists to share their vision for the direction of mental health research at a time of unprecedented demand for treatment and services.

“Entering the Duncan Macmillan Essay Prize was a great opportunity – I wrote on a topic I’m passionate about and learnt some interesting things along the way. The 1000-word limit is very manageable and gives a chance to practice academic writing skills. The prizes are well worth the effort and are an excellent addition to the CV. I put the prize money towards attending an international conference, continuing my professional development. I’d very much encourage my fellow trainees to apply.” Dr Leigh Townsend, 2021 1st prize winner.

Read last year’s winning entries here.

The first prize is £500, and the second prize is £250, both awarded as contributions to research-based expenses.

Entrants must submit a 1,000-word essay on the theme of, “The next big thing in psychiatry research” by 2 December 2022.

All entries should be emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Competition rules:

1. Competition entry criteria is limited to registered trainee doctors in psychiatry in the UK.
2. The winner and runner up of the essay competition will be determined by a panel chaired by the Institute’s Director, Professor Martin Orrell and other senior members of the Institute, along with representatives nominated by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Decisions made by the panel will be final.
3. Each essay must be no longer than 1000 words and be submitted electronically by the advertised submission date.
4. Essays published elsewhere are not eligible for this prize.
5. Both prizes are available to be claimed as research-related expenses only, by 31st March 2023.