HEAD Dissertation Prize

About this program

The High Energy Astrophysics Division (HEAD) awards the HEAD Dissertation Prize to recognize an outstanding doctoral dissertation in high-energy astrophysics, providing a $1500 cash award, a framed certificate, waived meeting registration for winner and finalists, and up to $1500 reimbursement for the winner’s travel (transportation and lodging) to attend the HEAD meeting. Eligible nominees must have received their PhD within three years prior to the HEAD meeting date; self-nominations are not accepted and nominations are not carried over to the next cycle. Nominations (current deadline 30 September 2026; typically due ~6 months before the meeting) must include a 3-page thesis summary (≤5 pages including figures/bibliography), a nomination letter—normally from the thesis supervisor or another HEAD member certifying degree conferral—two additional letters of recommendation, and a CV with publication list; at least one letter must be from a HEAD member.