Scientists, photographers and photomicrographers have until 30 April 2008 to submit images taken through the light microscope for the 34th annual Nikon Small World photomicrography competition
The oldest and most respected competition of its kind, Nikon Small World celebrates the world's best photomicrographers who showcase advanced scientific disciplines, while demonstrating an understanding of the beauty that can occur at the intersection of science and art.
Winners of the prestigious competition receive international attention in leading scientific and general interest publications.
In previous years, coverage has appeared in outlets such as Nature, Popular Science, ABCNews and Time magazine, among others.
Additionally, winning work is featured at an event in the autumn.
"As a young scientist, I am amazed by the amount of exposure I've received in winning the Nikon Small World competition," said Gloria Kwon, Memorial Sloan Kettering, 2007 Nikon Small World winner.
"I now regularly receive correspondence from scientists that have seen my image and want to learn more about my work".
Contestants may submit up to three images, either digitally or via film.
Entries will be judged by top industry experts on a variety of criteria including originality, informational content, technical proficiency and visual impact.
Entrants may use any brand of equipment to create their images.
Entrants with the top 20 photos will receive prizes of Nikon equipment, with first and second prize winners receiving US$3000 and $2000 worth of equipment respectively.
Additionally, the winning images will be featured at museums across the country as part of the Nikon Small World Museum Tour.