U.S. Particle Accelerator School
U.S. Particle Accelerator School
Education in Beam Physics and Accelerator Technology

USPAS Prize FAQs

USPAS Prize for Achievement in Accelerator Science & Technology FAQs

What can you tell me about this prize?

The USPAS prize honors individuals by recognizing their outstanding achievements over the full range of accelerator science and technology. The prizes are awarded every three years to three individuals.  One of the prizes will be awarded to an “early-achievement” of a scientist or engineer made within 15 years of their last degree, and the other two prizes will be awarded in the "general" category.  The prizes are awarded on a competitive basis without bias to race, ethnicity, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin or religion.

How is the Prize Committee selected?

The USPAS Director appoints the Prize Committee Chair who in turn appoints their committee members who select the recipient from nominations received.

May I submit a nomination package electronically or must I submit a hard copy?

You may submit nominations by email to the USPAS Office.

What should be included in the nomination package?

Nominations should include the name, institution and CV of the nominee, a description of accomplishments with supporting documents and suggested award citation, and up to three letters of support in addition to the nominating letter. Nominating letters may have multiple signatures.

What criteria does the Committee use when choosing the USPAS prize recipient?

Nominees are evaluated in these categories:

  1. Quality, impact and number of scientific/technical contributions to the field.
  2. Realization of concepts in working accelerators; leadership and vision in machine building; putting concepts into practice.
  3. Level of impact: degree to which concepts have led to the production of more or better science or has the potential for doing so in the future.
  4. Other factors, especially teaching/encouragement/stimulation of young scientists and engineers.
How long do you keep a nomination on file?

Nominations are kept for 2 prize cycles. Expired nominations may be renewed at the discretion of the nominator.  Early achievement nominations where the nominee advances beyond 15 years of their last degree will be evaluated in the general category. 

Where can I find out more about the USPAS prize?

More details can be found here on the USPAS website: USPAS Prize.