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The HEAD Dissertation Prize

The HEAD Dissertation Prize is awarded by the HEAD Executive Committee at the time of the Division Meeting (every 12-18 months, approximately) to recognize an outstanding doctoral dissertation in high-energy astrophysics. 

The 2024 Dissertation Prize Winner: Tyler Parsotan

"Monte Carlo Radiation Transfer Simulations of Gamma Ray Burst Prompt Emission" (Oregon State University)

Citations of previous Dissertation prize winners

The Nomination Process

Those who have received their degree within 3 years prior to the HEAD meeting date are eligible for the prize. Those who have not had their degree conferred by the nomination deadline should wait for the next opportunity to apply.

The due date for nomination materials to be submitted to the HEAD Secretary will be approximately six months before the HEAD division meeting. The following materials should be submitted, with at least one letter written by a HEAD member (letters of recommendation may be sent directly to the HEAD secretary). Self-nominations are not accepted.

  • A 3-page summary of the thesis (not to exceed 5 pages total including figures and bibliography)
  • A nomination letter, nominally by the thesis supervisor and acceptably by any HEAD member except the nominee, including a statement certifying that the PhD has been awarded
  • Two additional letters of recommendation
  • CV and publication list

Nominations can be submitted using the Dissertation Prize nomination form.

Please note that nominations are not held over; nominations need to be re-submitted  for consideration in the next award cycle, 

The Award Process

One winner and two finalists for the Dissertation Prize will be chosen by the Executive Committee from the list of nominees.  The winner and finalists will receive invitations to present 30-minute talks on their dissertation work at a scientific meeting organized by the HEAD.  The HEAD will re-imburse travel expenses (transportation and lodging) up to $1500 for the finalists and pay registration fees.  The winner will receive a framed certificate of award. 

Deadline

The current deadline for nominations is October 1, 2024.