George David Birkhoff Prize

Established in 1967, the prize honors George David Birkhoff (1884-1944), who served as the American Mathematical Society (AMS) President during 1925-1926. The prize is awarded every three years by SIAM and AMS for an outstanding contribution to applied mathematics. Nominations can be submitted via the AMS website.

Prize Description

The George David Birkhoff Prize recognizes outstanding contributions to applied mathematics in the highest and broadest sense. The prize is administered by AMS and awarded jointly by SIAM and AMS.

Read the full prize specifications.

Eligibility Criteria

A candidate must be a member of AMS or SIAM.

Required Materials

  • Nominator’s letter of recommendation for candidate
  • CV of the candidate
  • Proposed citation (up to 50 words)

About the Award

The George David Birkhoff Prize includes a $5,000 monetary award and a certificate containing the citation.

Learn more about the past recipients and selection committees.

Award Date

The George David Birkhoff Prize will next be awarded in January 2027 at the Joint Mathematics Meetings.

Award Presentation

The award is presented at the Prize Session and Reception during the Joint Mathematics Meetings. The announcement of the award will appear in SIAM News, the SIAM website, and appropriate electronic media.

Award Fund

The initial funds for the prize were donated by the Birkhoff family. The funds are held and managed by the AMS.