For Immediate Release: Friday, April 24, 2026, 12:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time
Media Contact: Evelyn Mantegani, [email protected]
ROCKVILLE, MD – The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) today announced the winners of its 2026 DNA Day Essay Contest. ASHG awarded first place to Carla Monté (La Vall, Sabadell, Spain), second place to Shiree Lapin (Acellus Academy, Kansas City, Missouri), and third place to Dragoș-Andrei Drăghici (Colegiul Național “Octavian Goga”, Sibiu, Romania).
Over 1,200 essays were submitted from 35 U.S. states and territories and 56 countries. Over 160 ASHG members – human genetics and genomics professionals – evaluated essays for accuracy, creativity, and writing through three rounds of review. ASHG has hosted the contest annually to invite the next generation of genetics professionals to explore their curiosity and communication skills in science. This year, students evaluated the advantages and disadvantages of a specific genetic treatment or therapy.
“The winning essays this year were exceptional, standing out across three rounds of review for their analysis, creativity, and compelling writing,” said Nara Sobreira, MD, PhD, Chair of ASHG’s Public Education & Awareness Committee. “I’m sincerely grateful to the ASHG member volunteers, whose thoughtful evaluations make this contest possible. To all the students who participated, along with the teachers who mentor them and help cultivate their academic growth: thank you for your enthusiasm, hard work, and passion for exploring genetics and genomics.”
National DNA Day, celebrated annually on April 25, commemorates the discovery of DNA’s double helix structure in 1953 and the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003, two key milestones in genetics.
ASHG will award monetary prizes to winning students as well as grants for genetics laboratory equipment to eligible teachers. Monté will receive a $1,000 prize. Lapin will receive a $600 prize. Drăghici will receive a $400 prize.
For details on the 2026 contest winners, visit the results page. For more genetics and genomics learning materials, visit ASHG’s informational website, Discover Genetics.
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About the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG)
Founded in 1948, the American Society of Human Genetics is the primary professional membership organization for human genetics specialists worldwide. Its community of nearly 8,000 members include researchers, academicians, clinicians, laboratory practice professionals, genetic counselors, nurses, and others with an interest in human genetics. The Society serves scientists, health professionals, and the public by providing forums to: (1) share research results through the ASHG Annual Meeting and in The American Journal of Human Genetics and Human Genetics and Genomics Advances; (2) advance genetic research by advocating for research support; (3) educate current and future genetics professionals, health care providers, advocates, policymakers, educators, students, and the public about all aspects of human genetics; and (4) promote genetic services and support responsible social and scientific policies. For more information, visit: https://www.ashg.org.
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