Leo Szilard Lectureship Award

To recognize outstanding accomplishments by physicists in promoting the use of physics for the benefit of society in such areas as the environment, arms control, and science policy. The lecture format is intended to increase the visibility of those who have promoted the use of physics for the benefit of society. The award consists of $1,000, a certificate citing the contributions of the recipient, plus $2,000 travel expenses for lectures given by the recipient at an APS meeting and at two or more educational institutions or research laboratories in the year following the award. The lectures should be especially aimed at physicists early in their careers.

Establishment & Support

This annual award was established in 1974 by the Forum on Physics and Society as a memorial to Leo Szilard in recognition of his concern for the social consequences of science. The award was endowed in 1998 by donations from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the Energy Foundation, the David and Lucille Packard Foundation and individuals. It was also expanded to a lectureship format to promote awareness of the application of physics to social problems and to increase the visibility of those engaged in such activities.

Rules & Eligibility

Any living physicist is eligible. Nominations are active for 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 2014 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 nomination held-over from the previous selection process.

Selection Committee Members: James L. Bonomo, Chair

Nomination Guidelines