ACA Awards: Honoring Excellence in Crystallography

For more than half a century, the American Crystallographic Association has recognized scientists whose achievements have advanced our understanding of the structure of matter. These awards celebrate transformative discoveries, innovative methods, outstanding teaching, early-career excellence, and communication of science to the public.

Explore the history of each award below, including its origin, purpose, and a complete list of past recipients.

Bau Neutron Diffraction Award	Acknowledges outstanding research achievement in neutron diffraction. Established 2010.
M.J. Buerger Award	Recognizes distinguished scientific contributions reflecting the legacy of Martin J. Buerger. Established 1983.
Margaret C. Etter Early Career Award	Celebrates exceptional early-career crystallographers and honors the memory of Professor Margaret C. Etter. Established 2002.
Fankuchen Memorial Award	Recognizes impactful crystallographic research coupled with excellence in teaching. Established 1971.
A.L. Patterson Award	Recognizes outstanding research in the structure of matter by diffraction methods. Established 1980.
David G. Rognlie Award	Celebrates high-impact discoveries or technical developments in structural science. Established 2014.
Kenneth N. Trueblood Award	Honors major contributions to computational or chemical crystallography. Established 2001.
B.E. Warren Award	Honors outstanding contributions to the physics of solids or liquids using diffraction techniques. Established 1970.
Elizabeth A. Wood Science Writing Award	Honors exceptional communication of science to broad audiences. Established 1997.
ACA Volunteer Service Award	Honors ACA members who make exceptional behind-the-scenes contributions to the organization through volunteer service.
Public Service Award	Recognizes a non-crystallographer who has made exceptional contributions to science policy, science funding, or public communication of crystallography.