Nikon disqualifies microscopy video winner over generative AI

Nikon has disqualified the original first-place winner of its 2026 Small World in Motion competition after determining that the microscopy video did not comply with the contest’s rules on generative AI.

The company adjusted the rankings, moving Nguyen Nam Nhat from second place to first for a video showing a tiny roundworm and a single-celled Dileptus. Nikon said the decision concerned only the submitted video’s eligibility, not the entrant’s professional reputation, scientific contributions or intent.

The former winning entry, submitted by Dr. Ning Xu, depicted abnormal beating of airway cilia from a child with primary ciliary dyskinesia. Xu had acknowledged using AI during post-processing but denied breaking the competition rules.

Nikon’s official competition rules state that AI-generated videos are not permitted and that the sponsor may request the original video for verification. Before issuing its decision, Nikon Small World said it was reviewing inquiries about the competition.

Nikon said it reevaluated the video and supporting materials and consulted the competition’s judges before reaching its decision. It has not disclosed the technical checks, source materials or discussions behind the ruling, and the available record does not establish which frames, structures or pixels were generated or altered.

The company said rapid changes in imaging and artificial intelligence had shown a need to revisit the rules and evaluation procedures for future Nikon Small World competitions.