#Innovation #Hong Kong #Computer Science #Shaw Prize

Historical Expansion of the Shaw Prize

On January 28, 2026, the Shaw Prize Foundation revealed a significant milestone in its history—a new award in Computer Science, marking the first major expansion in over twenty years. The introduction of this award reflects the ever-increasing importance of computer science in today’s world and its profound impact on various aspects of life and research.

Founded in 2002 by the media tycoon Run Run Shaw, the Shaw Prize has been awarded to more than 110 distinguished individuals in fields such as Astronomy, Life Sciences, Medicine, and Mathematical Sciences. The Foundation’s latest addition aims to celebrate and support the innovative breakthroughs transforming computer science and its contributions to humanity.

The Announcement

The announcement took place during a press conference at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, where over 100 distinguished guests from academia, media, and various sectors gathered. Dr. Raymond Chan, the Chairman of the Shaw Prize Foundation, opened the event by emphasizing how technology has profoundly transformed our lives and reaffirmed the Prize's commitment to excellence in recognizing these advancements. He stated, "Computer science is teeming with bold questions that push human thought to new limits," highlighting how this new award aligns seamlessly with the Foundation's vision.

Structure and Governance

The new Computer Science Prize will operate alongside the existing three categories, retaining the same governance and selection guidelines, with a generous monetary award of 1.2 million USD. Professor Kenneth Young, Chairman of the Shaw Prize Council, reiterated the award's integrity, assuring that it will uphold the high standards expected of all Shaw Prize recognitions.

Professor Tony Chan, who led the Planning Committee for the Computer Science Prize, expressed his honor in spearheading this initiative. He coordinated efforts to engage global experts to define the award's scope and guiding principles, underscoring that it will contribute meaningfully to the recognition of fundamental scientific achievements.

Nominations and Future Prospects

As the inaugural Chair of the Selection Committee, Professor Jennifer Chayes—Dean of the College of Computing, Data Science, and Society at UC Berkeley—recognized the profound intellectual depth within computer science, equating it with other fundamental sciences celebrated by the Shaw Prize. She invited industry leaders to nominate candidates once the nomination period opens from September to November 2026. The first recipients of this new accolade will be announced in spring 2027, alongside laureates from the other three awards categories.

As the world becomes increasingly reliant on technology, the Shaw Prize’s commitment to honor exceptional contributions in computer science signals a pivotal moment, ensuring that pioneers in this field receive the recognition they deserve. With innovative minds advancing our knowledge and capabilities, the Foundation’s latest expansion stands as a testament to the bright future of computer science and its integral role in shaping our world, paving the way for future generations.

Stay tuned as we anticipate the remarkable nominations that will emerge from this groundbreaking development. The Shaw Prize continues to light the path for excellence in science and technology, encouraging the exploration of uncharted territories in human knowledge.