The Science Communication Awards of the American Institute of Physics (AIP) are established to recognize the best science writing in books; magazines and newspapers; works intended for children; and new media in order to improve the general public's appreciation of the physical sciences, astronomy, math, and related science fields.
Entries are judged by a committee of scientists and journalists, and winning authors receive a prize of $3,000, an engraved Windsor chair, and a certificate of recognition. The publisher also receives a certificate of recognition. AIP pays the winning authors' travel expenses to the ceremony where the awards are presented.
Award categories
Science Writing: Books
Work must be intended for a general audience. Submissions are judged on their ability to enhance the public’s understanding and appreciation of physics and related fields.
See award winners.
Science Writing: Newspaper, Magazine, and Online Articles
Work must be intended for a general audience. Submissions are judged on their ability to enhance the public's understanding and appreciation of physics and related fields.
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Writing for Children
Entries in this category must be in the form of books, news or feature stories, multimedia, or Web content created specifically for children 15 years old or younger.
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Broadcast and New Media
Work must be intended for a general audience. Entries may include TV programs, films, online videos, radio segments, podcasts and works of new media. Please note: works of "new media" are distinct from "online articles", which should be entered in the separate category above. Just because something is available online does not make it new media, and works of new media are expected to incorporate substantial audio, visual or interactive elements into the storytelling.
See award winners.