The Sir Roger Bannister Prize competition rewards undergraduate medical students who excel in the study of neuroscience. Sir Roger, as well as being known for completing a mile run under four minutes, was also a neurologist. His academic work was mostly concerned with the autonomic nervous system, cardiovascular physiology, and multiple system atrophy.
The prize is held annually in memory of Sir Roger's lifetime of work. This year's judges were Dr Enrico Flossmann and Dr Ursula Schulz.
The winner was Alexandra Knighton (Balliol), with Louisa Webb as runner up. Alex commented: 'I was surprised to find the viva was in fact more enjoyable than it was nerve-wracking, and I felt grateful to have the opportunity to discuss neuroimmune disease, one of my favourite topics in clinical neurosciences. I'm really honoured to receive this prize and am looking forward to continuing to study neurosciences – thank you very much!'