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Shaw Prize 2025 Ceremony: A Celebration of Scientific Excellence

On October 23, 2025, the prestigious Shaw Prize ceremony took place at the Grand Hall of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, commemorating an impressive legacy of 22 years in the field of science and innovation. The event welcomed approximately 600 attendees from diverse sectors, all gathered to honor four distinguished laureates for their groundbreaking contributions.

In his opening speech, Professor Kenneth Young, the chair of the Shaw Prize Council, expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Chen-ning Yang, a founding member of the Shaw Prize who played a vital role in its establishment and global recognition. Professor Young conveyed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Shaw Prize Foundation to Yang's family and the global scientific community, highlighting the profound impact of Yang's work on the prize's development.

The Shaw Prize 2025 winners—Professor John Richard Bond, Professor George Efstathiou, Professor Wolfgang Baumeister, and Professor Kenji Fukaya—received their awards from Professor Reinhard Genzel, the chair of the selection committee. Each award is accompanied by a monetary reward of $1.2 million, reflecting the significance and prestige of their achievements.

Laureates Bond and Efstathiou were recognized for their research on cosmic microwave background fluctuations. During their acceptance speech, they shared fond memories of their decades-long friendship and collaboration, celebrating their personal and intellectual bonds as well as the global network of colleagues that has shaped their work.

Professor Wolfgang Baumeister, honored for his pioneering work in cryo-electronic tomography, highlighted the collaborative nature of scientific advancements. He emphasized the importance of visualizing cellular structures in their natural environments and advocated for a borderless approach to science.

Meanwhile, Professor Kenji Fukaya, who has made significant contributions to Riemannian geometry, symplectic geometry, and gauge theory, reflected on the solitary aspects of mathematical work and the rare but meaningful recognition it can achieve. He expressed profound gratitude to his collaborators and family for their unwavering support throughout his mathematical journey.

The Shaw Prize continues to stand as a beacon of excellence in scientific innovation, recognizing individuals who push the boundaries of knowledge and contribute significantly to the advancement of science. This year's ceremony not only honored remarkable achievements but also brought together a community that values collaboration, friendship, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

As the Shaw Prize looks toward the future, it remains committed to enhancing scientific exploration and innovation, ensuring that its legacy of excellence continues for many years to come. With the voices of laureates echoing through the halls, the ceremony underscored the importance of fostering an environment where ideas flourish, helping to illuminate the path for future generations of scientists and innovators.