The American Geophysical Union (AGU) is now accepting applications for its annual David Perlman Award for Excellence in Science Journalism – News. Established in 2000 and named after the former editor of the San Francisco Chronicle, this award is dedicated to honouring journalists or journalist groups who have the knack for turning complex science into compelling news stories or series.
What’s on the checklist for a successful nomination?
Accuracy, initiative, and clarity are key. If your story was the pioneer publication, beating other media outlets to the punch, or if it contains information of exceptional originality, importance, surprise, or secrecy, you’re on the right track. Your story or series must be about one or more of the scientific disciplines represented by AGU, and it should be intended for the general public, in English, or with an English translation.
Successful awardees would stand a chance of getting:
1. A US$5,000 prize
2. An engraved award
3. Recognition in Eos (science news magazine by AGU)
4. Recognition at AGU’s annual meeting the year the honour is awarded
5. Paid travel expenses up to US$1,000
6. Two tickets to the Honours Banquet at AGU’s annual meeting the year the honour is awarded
Eligibility criteria is that the nominee(s) must:
1. be a journalist working in any medium, except books
2. be an author or contributor of the submitted report
3. be a freelance journalist, or employed with a print/electronic publication or broadcast/cable station or network
4. not have won the Perlman award during the past two years.
In addition, groups of up to four authors/contributors may be included in the nomination. Note that self-nominations are accepted and nominees are not required to be AGU members. Nominations end March 27, 2024. Visit link to submit a nomination; https://www.agu.org/honors/
