Lev D. Landau and Lyman Spitzer Jr. Award for Outstanding Contributions to Plasma Physics
Recognizes outstanding theoretical, experimental, or technical contribution(s) in plasma physics and for advancing the collaboration and unity between Europe and the United States of America by joint research or research that advances knowledge which benefits the two communities in a unique way.
The award may be given to a team or collaboration of up to four persons affiliated with either European or United States institutions.
The award consists of $4,000, a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient, and a registration fee waiver to attend the meeting at which the award is to be presented.
The person or team receiving the award will be offered an invited talk at the forthcoming annual conference of APS-DPP (usually early November) or EPS-DPP (usually end of June, or first week of July), depending on the affiliation of the recipient(s).
On years that DPP is hosting, in the event of a team recipient, DPP may cap the number of registration waivers.
Note: There is not a travel reimbursement associated with this award.
Rules and eligibility
The Award recognizes work completed within the last 10 years and cannot be given posthumously.
Selection Committee
- Costanza Maggi
- John Sarff
- Michel Koenig
- Frederico Fiuza
- Daniel Dubin
- Louise Willingale
Establishment and support
The American Physical Society (APS) and the European Physical Society (EPS), through their respective Plasma Physics Divisions, will each contribute $2000 per prize.
Recent recipients
Anna Grassi
2024 recipient
For the critical advancement in the understanding of the particle acceleration physics in astrophysically-relevant shocks through theoretical analysis and experiments at the National Ignition Facility.
Frederico Fiuza
2024 recipient
For the critical advancement in the understanding of the particle acceleration physics in astrophysically-relevant shocks through theoretical analysis and experiments at the National Ignition Facility.
George F. Swadling
2024 recipient
For the critical advancement in the understanding of the particle acceleration physics in astrophysically-relevant shocks through theoretical analysis and experiments at the National Ignition Facility.
Hye-Sook Park
2024 recipient
For the critical advancement in the understanding of the particle acceleration physics in astrophysically-relevant shocks through theoretical analysis and experiments at the National Ignition Facility.
Christopher Chen
2022 recipient
For the theoretical development of the field-particle correlation technique and its application to spacecraft measurements directly showing that electron Landau damping plays a role in the dissipation of space plasma turbulence.
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.
Lev D. Landau and Lyman Spitzer Jr. Award for Outstanding Contributions to Plasma 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.