James C. McGroddy Prize for New Materials
The James C. McGroddy Prize for New Materials recognizes and encourages outstanding achievement in the science and application of new materials. This shall include the discovery of new classes of materials, the observation of novel phenomena in known materials leading to both fundamentally new applications and scientific insights, and shall also include theoretical and experimental work contributing significantly to the understanding of such phenomena. The prize consists of $10,000, plus a certificate citing the contribution of the recipient and an allowance for travel to the meeting of the Society at which the award is presented. It is awarded annually.
Rules and eligibility
The prize is open to scientists of all nationalities irrespective of where their work has been carried out. 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
- Beatriz Noheda
- Hidenori Takagi
- Stephen Wilson
- Johanna Palmstrom
- Divine Kumah
Establishment and support
The prize was established in 1997 and is endowed by IBM and the APS Division of Materials Physics.
Recent recipients
Thomas Mikolajick
2026 recipient
For seminal contributions to the implementation of ultra-thin, hafnium-based ferroelectrics in microelectronic devices.
Sayeef Salahuddin
2026 recipient
For seminal contributions to the implementation of ultra-thin, hafnium-based ferroelectrics in microelectronic devices.
George Jackeli
2025 recipient
For seminal theoretical and experimental research, materials design and discoveries that pioneered the exploration of novel forms of topological quantum matter in spin-orbit assisted Mott insulators realized in transition metal oxides.
Giniyat Khaliullin
2025 recipient
For seminal theoretical and experimental research, materials design and discoveries that pioneered the exploration of novel forms of topological quantum matter in spin-orbit assisted Mott insulators realized in transition metal oxides.
Hidenori Takagi
2025 recipient
For seminal theoretical and experimental research, materials design and discoveries that pioneered the exploration of novel forms of topological quantum matter in spin-orbit assisted Mott insulators realized in transition metal oxides.
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.
James C. McGroddy Prize for New Materials
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As approved by the Council of Representatives on April 10, 2025.
APS honors exceptional contributions to the physics community, including travel support for students and early career physicists.