Introduction
The International Association of Physics Students, serving as the Affiliated Commission 5 (AC5) of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP), is honored to present the IUPAP-IAPS Outstanding Student Award (OSA).
Founded in 1922, IUPAP has a dedicated mission to assist in the worldwide development of physics, to foster international cooperation in physics, and to help in the application of physics toward solving problems of concern to humanity. For more information, please visit here.
Since its inception in 1987, IAPS has actively encouraged scientific engagement between physics students worldwide, embodying its motto: “by Physics Students, for Physics Students.”
It is time for this engagement to be rewarded!
The IUPAP-IAPS Outstanding Student Award (OSA) is a prestigious award that recognizes excellence in academic achievement and significant contributions to the global physics community building. This award not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also highlights the potential of early-career physicists to shape the future of the field. The purpose of the prize is to provide recognition and visibility to students who are making groundbreaking contributions to physics, thus encouraging innovation and inspiring others in the early stages of their careers. By spotlighting the achievements of these individuals, the prize aims to foster continued research and development, motivating young physicists to pursue bold, original ideas.
Honoring the pursuit of science for all, the IUPAP-IAPS OSA aims to promote diversity and inclusion within the global physics community. It ensures talented individuals from diverse backgrounds are recognised for their contributions, thus supporting a more inclusive environment for all students.
Award
The OSA signifies a milestone in one’s career, inspiring continued pursuit of knowledge and engagement in the field of Physics.
The honored recipient will be awarded a CHF 1,000 cash prize, as well as distinguished certificates from IUPAP and IAPS.
Eligibility
- Students enrolled in a university or similar institution on a physics or physics-related course at the level of Bachelor, Master, or PhD, as well as up to twelve months after receiving a degree from a university or similar institution.
- Candidates must be current members of IAPS.
In order to fulfill IAPS membership, candidates must be affiliated with an IAPS Territorial or Local Committee, or be an IAPS Individual Member (for regions not covered by a Committee). See the full list of IAPS Committees here.
To become an Individual Member of IAPS, or for any questions regarding membership status, please contact recruitment@iaps.info.
- Note: Members of the IAPS EC and the AC5 Council of terms 2023/24, 2024/25 and 2025/26 are not eligible to apply!
Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications (including the letters from your referees) is October 15th, 2025, at 23:59 UTC.
Late applications will not be considered under any circumstances.
We strongly encourage applicants to complete their submissions well in advance of the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
How to Apply
Self-nomination is welcomed and encouraged.
All application materials, including letters of reference, must be submitted via the designated application portal (osa.iaps.info). Submissions through any other means will not be accepted.
For any inquiries, please contact ac5-council-osa@iaps.info.
Note: Once submitted, applications on the portal cannot be modified. Please ensure all information is accurate and finalized before submission.
Candidacy Requirements
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Length: 1–3 pages (maximum 3). Links permitted.
- Emphasis on physics-related associative work and community building, academic achievements and professional experience.
- Personal Statement
- Length: 1–2 pages (maximum 2). Links permitted.
- Address scientific and academic achievements, including any challenges that may have impacted the candidate’s academic path.
- Highlight involvement in student engagement activities, particularly those aligned with IUPAP and IAPS missions and values.
- Recommendation Letters
- Applications must include at least one recommendation letter, with a maximum of three allowed.
- Recommendation letters must address both aspects of the award—scientific excellence and associative engagement—or a separate letter may be provided for each aspect.
- Referees must submit their recommendation letters directly. Upon application submission, an automatic email containing a link will be sent to the referee(s). It is the candidate’s responsibility to confirm that the referee has agreed to act in this role before submitting the application.
- The content of the letter is prioritized over the referee’s reputation.
- Declaration of Consent
- Please download the form by clicking here. This Declaration of Consent must be filled out completely, signed and submitted with the rest of the application documents.
Evaluation Criteria
Associative Engagement & Community Building
- Involvement and dedication in associative activities, particularly those benefiting the scientific physics community
- Leadership roles and responsibilities in local, national, and/or international organizations or initiatives
- Demonstrated commitment and sustained engagement, with creativity and innovation in promoting physics
- Recognition or distinctions related to associative engagement (if applicable)
Academic & Scientific Excellence
- Progress and dedication demonstrated throughout the candidate’s educational path
- Focus and effort in advancing in any physics related field(s)
- Consideration of distinctions, awards, fellowships/scholarships, and breadth of expertise
- Note: The candidate’s current stage of education (Bachelor, Master, or PhD) will be taken into account during the evaluation process to ensure a fair evaluation within the context of their current academic level and available resources.
Interview process
- All applications will undergo a thorough evaluation process by the Jury. As part of this process, some applicants may be invited for an interview. Invitations will be extended at the discretion of the Jury.
Note: Being invited for an interview does not guarantee selection.
Contact
Please contact ac5-council-osa@iaps.info if you have any questions.