History of Physics Essay Contest
The Forum on the History and Philosophy of Physics (FHPP) of the American Physical Society is proud to hold its annual History of Physics Essay Contest. The contest aims to promote interest in the history of physics among those who are not, or not yet, professionally engaged in the field. Entries can address the work of individual physicists, teams of physicists, physics discoveries, or other appropriate topics in the history of physics, including historical topics with philosophical content. Entries may not exceed 2500 words, including notes and references. Entries should be both scholarly and generally accessible to scientists and historians. (AI-written or AI-assisted essays are not eligible.)
The contest is intended for graduate and undergraduate students but is open to anyone who does not hold a PhD in physics or history. Only single-author entries will be accepted. Entries with multiple authors will not be accepted. Entries will be judged on originality, clarity, and potential to contribute to the field. Previously published work, or excerpts thereof, will not be accepted. The author will receive a cash award of $1,000. In addition, the highest quality essays will be considered (1) for support to travel to an APS annual meeting to deliver a talk based on the essay and (2) for publication as a “Back Page” in APS News or in the FHPP Newsletter. The judges may also designate one or more runners-up, with a cash award of $500 each.
Entries will be judged by members of the FHPP Executive Committee, and are due by July 15, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET. They should be submitted as PDFs (preferred) or Word documents via email to FHPP Chair, Kathryn Olesko, Kathryn.Olesko@georgetown.edu, with the subject line “APS FHPP: 2026 Essay Contest.” Entrants should supply their names, institutional affiliations (if any), postal and email addresses, and phone numbers. Winners will be announced in September 2026.
Past Essay Contest Winners