[Archaeological Institute of America](https://www.archaeological.org)

March 15, 2026 (Nomination deadline)

Recognition award; monetary amount not specified; annual competition.

Honors an outstanding academic book in archaeology published within the past four years that advances the field through original research and synthesis.

--- ## Description The James R. Wiseman Book Award, presented annually by the Archaeological Institute of America (AIA), recognizes a recent academic book or monograph that makes a significant scholarly contribution to archaeology. Eligible works must be published within the four calendar years prior to the year of the AIA Annual Meeting at which the award is presented. The award highlights books that demonstrate originality, depth of research, and impact on the discipline, particularly those that synthesize archaeological evidence and offer new interpretations or methodologies. The competition is open to works that appeal to both specialists and a broader audience, advancing the understanding of ancient societies through rigorous scholarship. --- ## Due Dates - March 15, 2026: Nomination deadline for the James R. Wiseman Book Award (submission of nomination form) --- ## Funding Amount - The award is primarily a recognition of scholarly excellence; the specific monetary amount is not detailed in available materials. - The award is presented annually. --- ## Eligibility - The nominated book or monograph must be academic in nature and focus on an archaeological topic. - The work must be published within the four calendar years prior to (not including) the year of the Annual Meeting at which the award is made. - Textbooks are not eligible; handbooks or edited volumes must be exceptional to qualify. - The primary author, editor, or principal investigator must be an AIA member in good standing for at least one year immediately preceding nomination. For multi-authored/edited volumes, this requirement applies only to the primary author/editor. - Books may be submitted for the award only once, unless specifically requested by the Committee. - Books intended for a general audience should be nominated for the [Felicia A. Holton Book Award](https://www.archaeological.org/grant/holton-book-award/). --- ## Application Process - Nominations can be submitted by AIA members, authors, or publishers using the [online nomination form](https://www.archaeological.org/programs/professionals/grants-awards/applications/wiseman-book-award/). - Publishers should nominate no more than two books per year and ensure nominated works meet all eligibility criteria. - The nomination requires a completed form and a brief letter addressing the book's significance, influence, and appeal. - Do not ship review copies unless requested by the AIA. - The committee reviews nominations and makes a decision by October, with notifications sent in November. The award is presented at the AIA Annual Meeting in January. --- ## Additional Information - The award is intended to recognize works that change or influence the direction of archaeological research, are well written, and have broad interest within the field. - Notifications regarding the outcome are sent to nominators in November. - The winner is celebrated at the AIA Awards Ceremony during the Annual Meeting. --- ## External Links - [AIA Wiseman Book Award Program Page](https://www.archaeological.org/grant/wiseman-book-award/) - [Nomination Form](https://www.archaeological.org/programs/professionals/grants-awards/applications/wiseman-book-award/) - [AIA Membership Information](https://www.archaeological.org/join/) - [Felicia A. Holton Book Award](https://www.archaeological.org/grant/holton-book-award/) --- ## Contact Information | Role | Contact | |---------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [awards@archaeological.org](mailto:awards@archaeological.org) | | Membership Status | [membership@archaeological.org](mailto:membership@archaeological.org) | | Phone | 857-305-9350 | | AIA Contact Page | [Contact the AIA](https://www.archaeological.org/contact/) | ---

James R. Wiseman Book Award

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