Unlocking the Microscopic World: 2025 Nikon Small World Competition Panel Unveiled

Nikon Unveils Judging Panel for 2025 Small World Competition

Nikon Instruments Inc. recently announced the judging panel for the 51st Annual Nikon Small World photomicrography and Small World in Motion video competitions. Scheduled for June 4-5, 2025, at the renowned Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, this event promises to shine a light on the fascinating world revealed through the lens of light microscopes.

For over fifty years, the Nikon Small World competition has established itself as the leading platform for showcasing the extraordinary beauty of life at the microscopic level. In addition to honoring the top 20 photographers and top 5 videographers, the competition will also recognize honorable mentions and images of distinction. Participants can look forward to cash prizes of up to $3,000, alongside international media acknowledgment. Submissions will be evaluated based on key criteria, including originality, informational content, technical skill, and visual impact.

Eric Flem, Senior Manager of Communications and CRM at Nikon Instruments, articulated the significance of the diverse perspectives that each judge brings to the table. “Every year, each member of our judging panel brings unique insights that help curate a collection of images and videos that reflect advancements in scientific imaging and research. It’s essential to inspire curiosity and wonder among a global audience,” Flem stated.

This year’s judging panel consists of five distinguished experts from various fields, blending their artistic sensibilities with scientific acumen to ensure robust evaluation of the submissions.

1. Deboki Chakravarti, PhD — A science writer based in western Massachusetts, Chakravarti focuses on creating engaging educational content, including videos and podcasts. Her work spans a variety of subjects interlinked through her passion for science and its cultural implications. She holds a PhD in biomedical engineering from Boston University and is dedicated to enhancing public understanding of science.

2. Jeff DelViscio — As chief multimedia editor and executive producer at Scientific American, DelViscio brings a wealth of experience from his roles in various prestigious media outlets. His background includes directing multimedia projects and earning accolades such as two News and Documentary Emmys. DelViscio possesses dual master’s degrees in journalism and earth and environmental sciences from Columbia University.

3. Andrew Moore, PhD — Currently a postdoctoral scientist at the Janelia Research Campus of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Moore specializes in cell biology, focusing on organelle-cytoskeleton interactions. His research leverages advanced microscopy techniques to explore cell structure and dynamics.

4. Liz Roth-Johnson, PhD — A communicator of science, Roth-Johnson has extensive experience in effectively conveying complex scientific concepts to a broad audience. She currently oversees the development of compelling exhibit experiences at the California Science Center and has played a pivotal role in integrating photography in scientific exhibitions.

5. W. Gregory Sawyer, PhD — The chief bioengineering officer at the Moffitt Cancer Center, Sawyer has made significant contributions to bioengineering, with over 200 published journal articles. His background includes work with NASA’s Mars Rover Program and innovative research in cancer engineering.

Following the event, the winners of the Nikon Small World in Motion video competition will be announced in late September, while the results for the Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition will be released by mid-October 2025.

For further details, participants and enthusiasts can visit Nikon Small World and keep up with the competition through social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Bluesky.

The Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition invites anyone interested in microscopy photography or videography to participate. Anyone can find more information and upload their entries directly at Nikon Small World.

Nikon Instruments Inc. continues to lead advancements in optical and digital imaging technology for biomedical applications, marking a critical impact on scientific communities around the globe.