The American Physical Society (APS) has recognized Cornell physics professors Chris Henley and James Sethna as "outstanding referees" of peer-reviewed research.

Henley and Sethna are two of this year's 149 scientists recognized for exceptional work in assessing manuscripts for publication in APS journals.

Since 2008 the APS has annually given this recognition for outstanding referees, which is a lifetime award. The selection is based on 25 years of database records on more than 80,000 active and inactive referees, and more than 37,500 manuscripts submitted in 2011 alone.

Editors selected the honorees based on the quality, number and timeliness of their reports, without regard for membership in the APS, country of origin or field of research. Referees are rewarded for their work carried out since 1978.