AAG Wilbanks Prize for Transformational Research in Geography Grant

The AAG Wilbanks Prize for Transformational Research in Geography recognizes significant contributions to Geography or GIScience. Awarded by the American Association of Geographers, this prize includes a $2,000 cash award and a statuette. Eligibility extends to all individual geographers, with nominations accepted for two consecutive years, allowing revisions if submitted by December 31. It highlights transformative research across all geographical sectors, emphasizing the impact on science and society.

Note: The award will resume for the 2026-27 awards cycle if funding permits.
The Wilbanks Prize is awarded to geographers from the academic, public, or private sectors whose research has made transformational research contributions to Geography or GIScience, or to Science and Society more broadly. Wilbanks Prize awardees will receive a cash prize of $2,000 and a statuette honoring the recipient.
Nominations will be considered for two consecutive years. Nominators may modify the nomination package for the second year if they wish to do so provided that the revised nomination is received by December 31.

Eligibility

All individual geographers are eligible to be nominated for or to apply for the Wilbanks Prize. As with all other AAG awards, eligibility also rests on the candidate being in compliance with the AAG Professional Conduct Policy. Nominations may be rescinded, and the award may also be revoked for any candidate or awardee who is found in violation of the AAG’s Professional Conduct Policy.The Wilbanks Prize for Transformational Research in Geography will be presented to those who have conducted truly transformative geographic research, specifically research which transformed geography, GIScience, and/or the world. The prize shall be made for transformative geographic research conducted in all sectors of geographical research, including in academia, the private sector, and government/NGOs.

Ineligibility

The Wilbanks Prize is issued for transformative research only; it is not given for service, education, or teaching.