Nicholson Medal for Human Outreach

To recognize the humanitarian aspect of physics and physicists. Recognition consists of the Nicholson medal and a certificate which includes the citation for which the recipient has been recognized. Up to $1,500 will be available for the recipient's travel expenses to the meeting at which the Medal is presented. It will be presented annually.

Establishment & Support

This medal was previously named the Nicholson Medal for Humanitarian Service and was established in 1994 by the Division of Plasma Physics and the Forum on Physics and Society. It is sponsored by friends of Dwight Nicholson.

Rules & Eligibility

The Nicholson Medal for Human Outreach shall be awarded to a physicist who either through teaching, research, or science related activities,

1. has demonstrated a particularly giving and caring relationship as a mentor to students or colleagues, or has succeeded in motivating interest in physics through inspiring educational works, or

2. has created special opportunities that inspire the scientific development of students or junior colleagues, or has developed programs for students at any level that facilitated positive career choices in physics, or

3. has successfully stimulated the interest and involvement of the general public on the progress in physics.

Nominations are active for up three years.

Nomination & Selection Process

Serving a diverse and inclusive community of physicists worldwide is a primary goal for APS. Nominations of qualified women, members of underrepresented minority groups, and scientists from outside the United States are especially encouraged.

The deadline for submission of nominations for the 2013 prize is July 1, 2013. The nomination must include:

• A letter of not more than 5,000 characters evaluating the qualifications of the nominee(s).

In addition, the nomination should include:

• A biographical sketch.
• A list of the most important publications.
• At least two, but not more than four, seconding letters.
• Up to five reprints or preprints.

There may be additional requirements for particular prizes and awards. Please read the rules carefully.

To complete a nomination click here for the electronic submission form. All files should be in PDF format. Letters can be signed electronically (for example, using an embedded facsimile) or physically. In the latter case, they should be digitally scanned. Filenames should include the name of the nominee.

Please contact Shelly Johnston for information on submitting updated material for nominations held-over from the previous selection process.

Selection Committee Members: Ivan K. Schuller, Chair; W. Dorland;

Nomination Guidelines