W.K.H. Panofsky Prize in Experimental Particle Physics
To recognize and encourage outstanding achievements in experimental particle physics. The prize consists of $10,000, an allowance for travel to the meeting at which the prize is to be awarded, and a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient. It is presented annually.
Rules and eligibility
Nominations are open to scientists of all nations regardless of the geographical site at which the work was accomplished. The prize shall ordinarily be awarded to one person but the prize may be shared when all recipients have contributed to the same accomplishment. The prize will normally be awarded for contributions made at an early stage of the recipient's career. 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
- Tim Bolton
- Robert Bernstein
- Matthew Wetstein
- Joel Butler
- Patricia McBride
Establishment and support
The prize was established in 1985 by friends of W. K. H. Panofsky and the Division of Particles and Fields, Stanford University and SLAC.
Recent recipients
Joel Butler
2026 recipient
For wide-ranging scientific, technical, and strategic contributions to particle physics, particularly exceptional leadership in fixed-target quark flavor experiments at Fermilab and collider physics at the Large Hadron Collider.
Eckhard E. Elsen
2025 recipient
For pioneering work in establishing the HERA physics program and detectors, leadership in HERA physics exploitation resulting in the measurement of the proton's structure in new kinematic regions of vital importance in confronting new aspects of quantum chromodynamics, and enabling discoveries at the Large Hadron Collider.
Robert Klanner
2025 recipient
For pioneering work in establishing the HERA physics program and detectors, leadership in HERA physics exploitation resulting in the measurement of the proton's structure in new kinematic regions of vital importance in confronting new aspects of quantum chromodynamics, and enabling discoveries at the Large Hadron Collider.
Leslie J. Rosenberg
2024 recipient
For leading the synthesis of precision microwave cavity techniques, superconducting quantum sensing, and cryogenic technology into the modern axion haloscope, and for the subsequent demonstration of experimental sensitivity to high-priority models of axions as dark matter.
David B. Tanner
2024 recipient
For leading the synthesis of precision microwave cavity techniques, superconducting quantum sensing, and cryogenic technology into the modern axion haloscope, and for the subsequent demonstration of experimental sensitivity to high-priority models of axions as dark matter.
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.
W.K.H. Panofsky Prize in Experimental Particle Physics
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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.