#Innovation #Hong Kong #Science Awards #Shaw Prize

The Shaw Prize 2025: A Celebration of Scientific Excellence

On October 22, 2025, the prestigious Shaw Prize hosted its award presentation ceremony in the Grand Hall of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, commemorating 22 years of commitment to recognizing extraordinary contributions in science and innovation. This year, four distinguished laureates were honored for their significant achievements, marking yet another chapter in the legacy of the Shaw Prize.

The event gathered around 600 attendees from various sectors, reflecting the broad impact of the awarded work on both scientific communities and society at large. The ceremony opened with a poignant speech by Professor Kenneth Young, the chairman of the Shaw Prize Council, who expressed deep remorse over the passing of Professor Chen-Ning Yang, a founding member of the Shaw Prize. Professor Young acknowledged Professor Yang’s instrumental role in shaping the foundation and fostering its international prestige. He extended heartfelt condolences to Professor Yang’s family, friends, and the global scientific community.

The 2025 Shaw Laureates included Professor John Richard Bond, Professor George Efstathiou, Professor Wolfgang Baumeister, and Professor Kenji Fukaya. Each of these notable scientists received a prize of $1.2 million as recognition of their outstanding work. Notably, Professors Bond and Efstathiou were acknowledged for their pioneering research on the fluctuations of the cosmic microwave background, highlighting not only their academic partnerships but also their long-standing friendship and mutual support through decades of collaboration.

In his acceptance speech, Professor Baumeister, known for his groundbreaking work in cryo-electron tomography, reflected on the importance of collaboration in advancing scientific knowledge. He emphasized the necessity of conducting science without borders, advocating for a global approach to research that transcends geographical limitations. His insights resonated with attendees, inspiring a sense of community and shared purpose in the pursuit of knowledge.

Meanwhile, Professor Fukaya explored his journey through the realms of Riemannian geometry, symplectic geometry, and gauge theory. He spoke candidly about the solitary aspects of mathematical work and the profound, yet often understated, recognition that accompanies it. His sincere gratitude towards his collaborators and family underscored the collective effort required in achieving scientific breakthroughs.

The Shaw Prize continues to play a crucial role in fostering an environment where scientific innovation thrives, and this year’s ceremony reaffirmed that vision. By honoring these exceptional individuals, the Shaw Prize not only celebrates their achievements but also aims to inspire future generations of scientists. The enduring legacy of the Shaw Prize is not simply about individual recognition; it is about the collaborative spirit and the shared goal of advancing human knowledge.

As we reflect on this milestone, the Shaw Prize stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, intellect, and the unwavering dedication to scientific inquiry. The ceremony not only highlighted the laureates' contributions but also served as a reminder of the profound impact of science on our world. With each event, the Shaw Prize reinforces its position as a beacon of innovation and excellence, paving the way for future discoveries and advancements.