#China #Shanghai #scientific innovation #WLF Prize #World Laureates Forum

World Laureates Forum 2026: A Celebration of Scientific Excellence

On October 31, 2026, the World Laureates Forum commenced with an inspiring opening ceremony and the prestigious WLF Prize award presentation held at the Shanghai Lingang Center. As the permanent venue for the forum, the center was buzzing with energy as leading scientists, awardees, and attendees gathered under the theme "New Science Paradigm Break Through for the Next Decade."

This year’s forum spotlighted four critical areas: the collaborative research paradigm facilitated by artificial intelligence, new methods for value creation in scientific discovery, frameworks for international cooperation rooted in trust and openness, and strategies for nurturing young scientific talent. Approximately 300 scholars worldwide participated alongside over 4,000 guests, all engaging in meaningful dialogue on pivotal issues shaping the landscape of modern science, such as evolving research paradigms, value chains, global collaboration, talent development, and governance in science and technology.

Celebrating Scientific Brilliance: Award Ceremony Highlights

Eminent scientists were recognized during the award ceremony, held as a highlight of the event. The 2026 WLF Prize celebrated major contributions in three distinct categories including Computer Science or Mathematics, Life Science or Medicine, and the newly launched Young Scientists Award. Since its inception in 2021, the WLF Prize has gained international recognition, awarded to a total of 23 distinguished scientists to date, with prizes totaling up to 10 million yuan in each of the main categories.

Honorees of WLF Prize

2026 WLF Prize for Computer Science or Mathematics was awarded to Ingrid Daubechies, showing noteworthy achievements in applied harmonic analysis and wavelet theory.

WLF Prize in Life Science or Medicine went to an exceptional quartet: Yuan Junying, Wang Xiaodong, Shao Feng, and Vishva Dixit. Their groundbreaking work elucidated the molecular pathways involved in programmed cell death, revolutionizing our understanding of various physiological functions and diseases, particularly in cancer research.

The prize for Young Scientists featured six talented recipients recognized for their pioneering work, earning 1 million yuan each. This category aims to inspire and empower early-career researchers, fostering the next generation of great minds.

Keynote Insights: Bridging Science and Industry

Alongside award announcements, a series of impactful keynote speeches were delivered by renowned scientists and industry leaders, fostering a dialogue between cutting-edge scientific research and industry applications. Topics ranged from Omar M. Yaghi’s perspective on AI’s role in science to discussions on sustainable energy by Zeng Yuqun, emphasizing the importance of innovation in addressing global challenges.

Exploration of Future Frontiers

The forum organized a comprehensive framework of activities, designated as "1+6+4+1", comprising a combined opening ceremony and award presentation, six parallel forums focusing on future disciplines such as biomedicine and quantum science, and four themed events. This multi-faceted approach highlights the organizers' commitment to enhancing collaboration and knowledge exchange across academic and industrial sectors.

Moreover, initiatives like the Young Scientists Forum and specialized workshops were held, aiming to bridge knowledge gaps and encourage collaborative efforts. The forum also featured side events including science and technology tours, and a temporary exhibition titled "Liu Hui The Great Mathematician of Ancient China," celebrating historical contributions to mathematics within the context of contemporary developments.

A Vision for the Future

Since its launch in 2018, the World Laureates Forum has been dedicated to its mission of promoting fundamental science and facilitating international cooperation. This year's gathering exemplified the forum's commitment to global scientific collaboration and the advancement of young scientists.

Hosting a blend of prestigious award winners and eminent researchers across various fields, the event has positioned Shanghai as a pivotal platform for international scientific dialogue. The Lin-gang area will continue to harness this momentum to develop an international center for science and technology innovation, aiming to attract global talent and support cross-border cooperation.

As the 2026 forum concluded, it set the stage for continued advancements in science, urging participants to strive for breakthroughs that will shape the scientific community for years to come. In doing so, it underscored an enduring commitment to harnessing the power of science for the benefit of humanity.