Tom W. Bonner Prize in Nuclear Physics
To recognize outstanding experimental research in nuclear physics, including the development of a method, technique, or device that significantly contributes to nuclear physics research. The prize consists of $10,000 and a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient. It will be presented annually.
Rules and eligibility
Nominations are open to physicists whose work in nuclear physics is primarily experimental. There is no time limitations on work described. The prize shall ordinarily be awarded to one person but may be shared when all the recipients have contributed to the same accomplishment. Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.
Process and selection
The nomination package 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.
Selection Committee
- Albert Young
- Reina Maruyama
- Sowjanya Gollapinni
- Ronald Gilman
Establishment and support
This prize was endowed in 1964 as a memorial to Tom W. Bonner by his friends, students and associates.
Recent recipients
Christopher L. Morris
2026 recipient
For pioneering work to develop an ultracold neutron source and establish ultracold-neutron-based physics research in the U.S., and for leadership in measuring the free neutron lifetime to unprecedented precision using a magneto-gravitational trap and in-situ detection of neutrons.
Volker D. Burkert
2025 recipient
For exemplary leadership in the development of high-performance instrumentation for large acceptance spectrometers that have enabled breakthroughs in fundamental nuclear physics through electroproduction measurements of exclusive processes.
Wit Busza
2024 recipient
For pioneering work on multi-particle production in proton-nucleus and nucleus-nucleus collisions, including the discovery of participant scaling, and for the conception and leadership of the PHOBOS experiment.
Jen-Chieh Peng
2023 recipient
For pioneering work on studying antiquark distributions in the nucleons and nuclei using the Drell-Yan process as an experimental tool, and for seminal work on elucidating the origins of the flavor asymmetries of the light-quark sea in the nucleons.
David W Hertzog
2022 recipient
For advancing the frontiers of understanding nature's fundamental symmetries via unprecedented precision studies of the muon, including its lifetime, its anomalous magnetic moment, and its measurement by the pseudoscalar coupling constant.
APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.
Nominees for and holders of APS Honors (prizes, awards, and fellowship) and official leadership positions are expected to meet standards of professional conduct and integrity as described in the APS Ethics Standards. Violations of these standards may disqualify people from consideration or lead to revocation of honors or removal from office.
Tom W. Bonner Prize in Nuclear Physics
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As approved by the Council of Representatives on April 10, 2025.
APS honors exceptional contributions to the physics community, including travel support for students and early career physicists.