Formerly known as the Logan Wright Distinguished Research Award, this award recognizes excellence and significant contributions in establishing the scientific base of pediatric psychology. Nominations can be made for one particularly significant contribution or a series of contributions in a programmatic area. Nominations and endorsements should include an evaluative summary of the contribution, noting the positive impact of the nominee’s research and detailing the extent of scholarship given in productivity.

The recipient may be invited to give an award presentation at SPP's annual conference.