Robert R. Wilson Prize for Achievement in the Physics of Particle Accelerators
The Robert R. Wilson Prize recognizes and encourages outstanding achievement in the physics of particle accelerators. The prize consists of $10,000, an allowance for travel to the meeting at which the prize is awarded, and a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient. It is presented annually.
Rules and eligibility
Nominations are open to scientists of all nations regardless of the geographical site at which the work was done. The prize shall ordinarily be awarded to one person but may be shared when all recipients have contributed to the same accomplishment. The prize will normally be awarded for contributions made at an early stage of the recipient's career. 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
- Wolfram Fischer
- Dmitri Denisov
- John Byrd
- Lia Merminga
Establishment and support
The prize was established in 1986 by friends of Robert R. Wilson, the Division of Particles and Fields, and the Division of Physics of Beams.
Recent recipients
Alexander Zholents
2025 recipient
For many important contributions to particle accelerators and light sources, including ultra-fast X-ray techniques for electron beams and beam cooling methods.
Kaoru Yokoya
2024 recipient
For seminal contributions to the theory and control of beam polarization in electron storage rings, beam-beam interactions in linear colliders, crab-crossing and coherent beam-beam interactions in circular colliders, and bunched beam instabilities.
Alexander J. Dragt Sr.
2023 recipient
For pioneering contributions to the development and application of Lie methods in accelerator physics and nonlinear dynamics.
G. William Foster
2022 recipient
For leadership in developing the modern accelerator complex at Fermilab, enabling the success of the Tevatron program that supports rich programs in neutrino and precision physics.
Stephen D. Holmes
2022 recipient
For leadership in developing the modern accelerator complex at Fermilab, enabling the success of the Tevatron program that supports rich programs in neutrino and precision physics.
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.