Einstein Prize
This prize recognizes outstanding accomplishments in the field of gravitational physics. The prize consists of $10,000 and a certificate citing the contributions of the recipient. It also includes an allowance for the recipient to travel to a meeting of the Society to receive the award and deliver a lecture. It is awarded biennially in odd-numbered years.
Rules and eligibility
The award, usually to a single individual, is for outstanding achievement in theory, experiment or observation in the area of gravitational physics. It is open to any scientist, worldwide. Nominations will be considered for two review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline. Members of the Division of Gravitational Physics Executive Committee shall not be eligible for nomination while sitting on the Committee.
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.
Establishment and support
The prize was established by the Topical Group on Gravitation (now Division of Gravitational Physics) in 1999. It is supported by friends of the Division, including major support from David Lee.
Recent recipients
Gary T. Horowitz
2023 recipient
For fundamental contributions to classical gravity and gravitational aspects of string theory.
Clifford Martin Will
2021 recipient
For outstanding contributions to observational tests of general relativity with theories of gravitational waves, astrophysical black holes, and neutron stars.
Saul Teukolsky
2021 recipient
For outstanding contributions to observational tests of general relativity with theories of gravitational waves, astrophysical black holes, and neutron stars.
Abhay Ashtekar
2019 recipient
For numerous and seminal contributions to general relativity, including the theory of black holes, canonical quantum gravity, and quantum cosmology.
Robert M. Wald
2017 recipient
For fundamental contributions to classical and semiclassical gravity studies, in particular, the discovery of the general formula for black hole entropy, and for developing a rigorous formulation of quantum field theory in curved spacetime.
The membership of APS is diverse and global, and the nominees and recipients of APS Honors should reflect that diversity so that all are recognized for their impact on our community. Nominations of members belonging to groups traditionally underrepresented in physics, such as women, LGBT+ scientists, scientists who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC), disabled scientists, scientists from institutions with limited resources, and scientists from outside the United States, are especially encouraged.
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 Guidelines. Violations of these standards may disqualify people from consideration or lead to revocation of honors or removal from office.