Peter Debye Award in Physical Chemistry

Award at a Glance

TypeAward
Recipient Faculty, Industry, Chemistry Professional
Category National Awards,  Public Service & Outreach
Amount$5,000 + Expenses
DeadlineDecember 15, 2025

Nomination Period Extended: Due to the impacts of the federal government shutdown on many of our members, we have extended the nomination period for the 2027 National Awards until December 15 at 11:59 PM ET.

Purpose

To encourage and reward outstanding research in physical chemistry.

Description

The award consists of $5,000 and a certificate. Up to $2,500 for travel expenses to the meeting at which the award will be presented will be reimbursed.

Eligibility

A nominee must have accomplished outstanding research of a theoretical or experimental nature in the field of physical chemistry. Because much of the impact of research depends upon the extension of the work by others, some consideration should be given to the nominee's success as a mentor and colleague. The award will be granted regardless of race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, presence of disabilities, and educational background.

Deadline

November 1 (Annual Review)

How to Apply

The nomination period is open from July 1 to November 1 annually. Learn more about submitting a nomination for the ACS National Awards.

Selection Committee Rubric for Peter Debye Award in Physical Chemistry (XLSX, 14 KB)

Sponsor

An Endowed Fund Established by the ACS Division of Physical Chemistry

History

The Humble Oil and Refining Co. established the award in 1960. From 1970 to 1976, the award was sponsored by the Exxon Chemical Company. No awards were presented from 1977 to 1980. The award was sponsored by DuPont from 1979 to 2022. Since 2023, the award has been supported by an endowed fund established through donations by the ACS Division of Physical Chemistry.

Contact Information

ACS National Awards Program
American Chemical Society
1155 16th Street NW | Washington, DC 20036
Email: awards@acs.org

2026 Debye Recipient Martin Gruebele
2026 Recipient Martin Gruebele (Center) is Presented with His Award by Rigoberto Hernandez, ACS President (Left) and Sponsor Representative Francesco Paesani (Right)
Photo by EPNAC.com

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