#Hong Kong #Shaw Prize #scientific excellence #honorary award

The Shaw Prize Award Presentation Ceremony 2025

On October 21, 2025, the prestigious Shaw Prize commended its four laureates at the iconic Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The ceremony, attended by approximately 600 guests, brought together luminaries from diverse backgrounds, all celebrating significant advancements in science and innovation.

A Tribute to a Visionary

The event commenced with heartfelt remarks from Professor Kenneth Young, Chair of The Shaw Prize Council. He expressed deep sorrow over the recent passing of Professor Chen-ning Yang, a key figure in the establishment of the Shaw Prize. Professor Yang's vital contributions to the prize’s inception and his enduring influence on its global stature were highlighted. His legacy continues to inspire many in the scientific community.

Honoring the 2025 Shaw Laureates

The award ceremony recognized the exceptional achievements of four distinguished scientists; Professor John Richard Bond, Professor George Efstathiou, Professor Wolfgang Baumeister, and Professor Kenji Fukaya. Each laureate was awarded a Shaw Prize, accompanied by a monetary reward of $1.2 million.

Celebrating Collaboration

Professor Bond and Professor Efstathiou were celebrated for their groundbreaking work on cosmic microwave background fluctuations. During their presentations, they reflected on their long-standing collaboration and friendship that shaped their research endeavors. Their joint work has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the universe.

Innovation in Cryogenic-Electron Tomography

Professor Wolfgang Baumeister, awarded for his pioneering contributions to cryogenic-electron tomography, articulated his passion for visualizing cellular structures in their native environments. He emphasized the essential nature of scientific collaboration and promoted the notion of ‘science without borders,’ advocating for collective efforts to drive innovation across nations.

The Solitary Journey of Mathematics

Professor Kenji Fukaya shared insights into his journey within mathematics, encompassing Riemannian geometry, symplectic geometry, and gauge theory. He acknowledged the solitary nature of his work while expressing gratitude to his collaborators and family, whose support was vital throughout his profound and complex mathematical journey.

A Legacy of Scientific Advancement

The Shaw Prize has upheld its commitment to recognizing scientific excellence for over two decades. By celebrating these remarkable individuals, the prize continues to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, inspiring future generations of scientists. The event not only highlighted significant contributions to science but also reinforced the bonds that unite researchers in their quest for knowledge and discovery.

In conclusion, the 2025 Shaw Prize ceremony was a poignant reminder of the importance of scientific pursuit and collaboration. As the world navigates complex challenges, the legacy of the Shaw Prize serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the impact of dedicated scientists on society and the future of humanity.