The Downs Prize Fund was established using money donated by former Chemistry students and colleagues of Professor A J Downs on the occasion of his retirement.

The Prize is awarded annually in Trinity Term, on the recommendation of the Chemistry Tutors. It is usually awarded to the undergraduate student who has achieved the most outstanding result in their third year examinations, but Tutors also consider the progress and diligence of students throughout their second and third years when making a recommendation.

The value of the Prize is determined by Governing Body and takes the form of a payment by bank transfer.