Often called the “Nobel Prize of Alzheimer's research,” The Potamkin Prize recognizes the achievements of scientific researchers who do innovative work, find groundbreaking discoveries, and push forward the field of study in Pick’s, Alzheimer’s, and related brain degenerative diseases.

Since establishing the award in 1988, Potamkin Philanthropies, in partnership with the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and the American Brain Foundation (ABF), has bestowed more than $3 million to over 70 researchers, paving the way toward a series of truly revolutionary advances in the field of brain science.

By sponsoring continuous research within this field and providing funding to multiple scientists over the course of decades, the Potamkin family aims to pioneer innovative research into potential treatments.

In May 2021, we launched the Potamkin Prize for Students to support the education of young researchers and future scientists. The scholarship is awarded at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, the oldest and most prestigious high school science fair in the world with over 1,800 students participating.

Each year, three previous Potamkin Prize winners serve as our panel of judges. This creates relationships between generations of scientists by exposing young students to professionals and introducing professionals to the innovative work these students are doing.

The inaugural recipient of the Potamkin Prize for Students is Ms. Aditi Kona who’s winning project focuses on the Characterization of Insulin-degrading Enzyme: Using Molecular Visualization Systems to Understand Substrate Recognition in Type 2 Diabetes and Alzheimer’s.

The Potamkin Prize was established in honor of Luba Potamkin, wife of famed entrepreneur Victor Potamkin. Luba’s starring role in television commercials for the family’s Manhattan Cadillac dealership made “Potamkin” a household name in 1970s New York.

When Luba was diagnosed with Pick’s disease in 1978, the Potamkin family was determined to solve the riddle of the cause. Pick’s and Alzheimer’s were not as well-known as they are today. Victor, along with Luba’s sons, Alan and Robert, began sponsoring research within the field.

In 1988 the family established The Potamkin Prize for Research in Pick's, Alzheimer's, and Related Diseases. The Potamkin family honors Luba Potamkin’s memory by continuing this award into its fourth decade.