Notes and Records Essay Award

Notes and Records, the Royal Society journal of the history of science, reports on current research and archival activities throughout the field of history of science, technology and medicine.

The biennial Essay Award has been running since 2010 and is open to early career researchers in the history of science who have completed a postgraduate degree within the last five years.

Winners of the Notes and Records Essay Award receive a cash prize of £500. The winning entry is chosen using the journal's standard criteria for selection, excellence and interest to a wide audience, and will be published in the journal.

One runner-up also receives a cash prize of £250, while up to three honourable mentions each receive £100. Additionally, all winners are granted a one-year online subscription to Notes and Records.

You can read our special collection featuring past winning essays along with those recognised as runners-up.

2025 Prize – how to submit your entry

Do you want to submit an article to be considered for the Notes and Records Essay Award, or encourage a colleague to enter? The 2025 competition will be open for entries from 1 September 2024 to 28 February 2025. Check out the terms and conditions of the competition, including eligibility and how to enter. If you have any questions, please contact the editorial office at any time.