Lewis Thomas Prize
Honoring the Scientist as Poet
2026 PRIZE AWARDEE:
Chris Impey, Ph.D.
Distinguished Professor of Astronomy,
Steward Observatory, The University of Arizona
Steward Observatory, The University of Arizona
Author of Worlds Without End: Exoplanets,
Habitability, and the Future of Humanity
Habitability, and the Future of Humanity
MARCH 9, 2026
An International Award for Writing about Science
Throughout history, scientists and writers have sought to communicate with one another, despite barriers of language and process. The Rockefeller University Lewis Thomas Prize for Writing about Science honors the rare individual who bridges both worlds—whose voice and vision can tell us about science’s aesthetic and philosophical dimensions, providing not merely new information but cause for reflection, even revelation.
The Lewis Thomas Prize was established in 1993 by the trustees of The Rockefeller University and presented to Lewis Thomas, its first recipient, that year.