Professional societies, such as the Materials Research Society (MRS), are making strides toward helping postdoctoral researchers in their careers. MRS has instituted postdoctoral awards and other opportunities to engage postdocs, including involvement in various volunteer activities within MRS, publications, and conferences.

MRS Bulletin Postdoctoral Publication Prize

The MRS Bulletin Postdoctoral Publication Prize was initiated in 2017. It differs from the MRS Postdoc Award by emphasizing scientific writing and communication, in addition to research excellence and the required demonstrated interest in the scientific publication process. After all, this is one of the missions of MRS Bulletin: to encourage and promote scientific writing and communication.

We were pleasantly surprised last year when the inaugural Prize rendered close to 120 applications and nominations. The candidates were outstanding, and the accomplishments of many of the applicants and nominees were remarkable. We had a difficult time selecting the recipient. Ultimately, the Prize went to Andy Tay of Stanford University for his outstanding academic credentials, impressive list of scientific publications, and, most importantly, his science communication efforts. You can watch an MRS TV video interview with Andy Tay, discussing his research.

Submitting an application or making a nomination

The application and nomination window for the 2018 MRS Bulletin Postdoctoral Publication Prize is currently open with a deadline of July 31. The prize consists of:

• $2000 cash award
• Profile published in MRS Bulletin
• Complimentary one-year membership to MRS
• An invitation to publish in MRS Bulletin

MRS Bulletin acknowledges the Jiang Family Foundation for its generous contribution to support this Prize.

If you are a current postdoc and have been so for at least six months (but not more than five years post-PhD), consider submitting an application. If you have postdocs working in your group, encourage them to apply or, alternatively, you can nominate them. I want to reiterate the requirement of interest in science writing and communication, as demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications, various forms of writing, editing activities, as well as outreach and other relevant efforts.

To find out more about the MRS Bulletin Postdoctoral Publication Prize, or to make a submission, go to this dedicated web page.

Gopal R. Rao
Editor, MRS Bulletin