Compton Medal for Leadership in Physics
About the Medal
The Karl Taylor Compton Medal recognizes distinguished physicists for outstanding statesmanship in science. The award established in 1957 by the American Institute of Physics (AIP) in honor of Karl Taylor Compton, first chairman and one of the principal founders of AIP, for his tireless work as a combination scientist-statesman and statesman-scientist. Intended primarily for physicists who are U.S. citizens, the award is given biennially on even-numbered years, or when it appears appropriate. It consists of a medal, a certificate, and a cash award of $10,000. The award is supported by a restricted/endowed fund.
Nominations are due on October 1st.
Criteria
The recipient is chosen by the Institute's Board of Directors on the recommendation of a committee appointed for the purpose. Examples of notable statesmanship in science could include:
- advancing the public understanding of science,
- inspirational teaching and mentoring,
- promoting peace and seeking solutions to world problems,
- leadership of scientific institutions,
- advocacy and policy development in support of science, and
- efforts to increase diversity, advance gender and racial equality in the physical sciences.
The award committee welcomes nominations of individuals from across the broad spectrum of the physical sciences. The committee encourages nominations of all individuals meeting the award criteria, including those who have varied life experiences and perspectives; and who have faced systemic barriers.
A citation on the accompanying certificate will state the particular service for which the award is made. The medalist is expected to receive the award in person. Travel expense is reimbursed by the Institute.
To Apply
Nominations are to be submitted in PDF format via email to lcaron@aip.org ; include ALL information/attachments in one email:
- Letter of nomination
- Two letters supporting the nomination
- Curriculum vitae of the nominee
- Proposed citation for the award
Self-nominations are permitted.
