GNPC Proteomics Data Challenge
Help accelerate biomarker discovery in Alzheimer’s and related dementias (ADRD). Use the Global Neurodegeneration Proteomics Consortium (GNPC) Harmonized Data Set—the world’s largest neurodegeneration proteomics resource—to generate insights that could improve detection, prognosis, and treatment pathways.
Challenge Summary
Who | Researchers, data scientists, and clinicians worldwide (see eligibility). We encourage diverse applicants and interdisciplinary teams. |
What | Submit a short research project that analyzes the GNPC Harmonized Data Set (HDS); optionally including cohort datasets available via AD Workbench. |
Where | All analyses to be conducted on the AD Workbench. |
When | Submissions due Jan 15, 2026; decisions expected March 2026. |
Awards | For each priority question: $10,000 USD (1st) and $5,000 USD (2nd). Up to 16 total prizes. Publication support and open sharing of code for winners. |
Want to Join?
- Request access to the GNPC HDS (and optional cohorts) on AD Workbench.
- Run your analyses entirely within your AD Workbench workspace targeting a key research question.
- Submit via the application portal by Jan 15, 2026, 15:00 Pacific with:
- Profile details
- Workspace name used for the analysis
- Datasets analyzed
- Chosen research question(s)
- Abstract (≤200 words)
- Project summary (≤2 pages, single-spaced): Introduction, Methods, Results, Conclusion (+ References)
If selected as a winner you’ll share a clean, documented code archive and a draft manuscript (publication fees covered upon acceptance); code will be shared openly with the community.
Priority Research Areas
Choose one priority research question as the focus of your project:
- Protein dynamics over time: Do longitudinal protein changes track healthy aging and disease progression, including preclinical to post-diagnosis AD?
- Plasma markers & progression: Do plasma changes influence/reflect progression speed? Any promising therapeutic targets?
- Prognostic markers: Can we predict cognitive decline and neurodegeneration?
- Subtyping AD: Can biomarker patterns define meaningful clinical subtypes?
- Delaying onset: Can proteomics inform prevention?
- Early diagnosis: Can we leverage proteomics for earlier detection of disease?
Don’t see your favorite question? Submit it by November 1, 2025 to be considered as an addition to the list.
Datasets
Required: GNPC Harmonized Dataset
The largest proteomics data set ever assembled, consisting of over 300 million protein measurements.
Tip: When requesting access in AD Workbench, include a brief note that you’re participating in the GNPC Challenge to help expedite review.
GAP Bio-Hermes
Cross-platform AD diagnostics (blood biomarkers, digital tests, cognitive assessments).
Emory Goizueta Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC)
University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (KU ADRC)
Mayo Clinic Study of Aging (MCSA)
Longitudinal biomarkers, cognitive outcomes, and select PET.
Judging Criteria & Eligibility
Entries are scored (1–5) on:
- Topic Responsiveness — How well does the work address the chosen question?
- Innovative Approach — Creative/novel methodology; integration across data types; interpretable outputs.
- Significance & Impact — Potential to advance dementia biology, detection, diagnosis, or treatment with a path to real-world application.
Up to two entries per question may be selected as winners.
GNPC consortium members and researchers with embargo-period access to the HDS are not eligible. Due to U.S. financial restrictions, certain countries are ineligible. See full rules for the current list.