#Hong Kong #Computer Science #Shaw Prize #Turing Award

The Shaw Prize Expands to Include Computer Science

In a significant move for the realm of technology and academia, the Shaw Prize Foundation has announced the creation of a new accolade: The Shaw Prize in Computer Science. This prestigious award will complement existing honors in Astronomy, Life Science and Medicine, and Mathematical Sciences. The announcement, made on January 28, has captivated experts around the world, signifying a new chapter in the recognition of groundbreaking work in computational fields.

Formation of the Selection Committee

The inaugural Selection Committee, consisting of renowned specialists from various domains, will be responsible for selecting the first laureate(s). The committee, which reflects a diverse range of expertise, includes Turing Award winners, former university presidents, and leaders in IT and education. Nominations for the prize will open from September to November 2026, with the inaugural winner announcement slated for spring 2027.

Leading the committee is Professor Jennifer Chayes, who holds the title of Dean of the College of Computing, Data Science, and Society at UC Berkeley. Chayes highlights the committee's diversity as a pivotal strength: “Our committee brings together extraordinary expertise from around the globe, reflecting the international and interdisciplinary nature of computer science today.” This approach aims for balanced and rigorous evaluations of nominations, ensuring that the most deserving candidates receive acknowledgment.

Professor Tony Chan, former President of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and a key figure in shaping this new prize, expressed hope that the Shaw Prize will elevate accountability in recognizing outstanding contributions in computer science. He stated, “The Shaw Prize will lend its prestige and track record to recognize true outstanding contributions to computer science.” Additionally, Professor John L Hennessy, ex-President of Stanford University and Turing Award recipient, noted the prize's potential impact, reinforcing the significance of computer science, navigating both its intellectual depth and increasing importance in society.

Esteemed Committee Members Join Forces

The committee features an impressive roster of Turing Award laureates, including Professors Jack Dongarra, Yann LeCun, and Joseph Sifakis. Dongarra, a celebrated figure in the computing landscape, shared his excitement about participating in the establishment of this new prize, aiming to ensure that “bold, field-defining ideas...are seen, valued, and celebrated by the global community.” On the other hand, Sifakis emphasized the critical challenges facing the field, stating that understanding how consciousness arose in living organisms is pivotal to advancing intelligence.

LeCun, a pioneer in artificial intelligence and Chief AI Scientist at Meta, stressed that computing not only represents an essential human capability but is also a powerful tool for shaping our future. He stated, “Computing is one of the most important human capabilities.” The committee's commitment to showcasing exceptional endeavors within the discipline mirrors the urgency and relevance of computer science in today’s technologically driven world.

An Invitation to Future Innovators

As the academic community and industry professionals await the opening of nominations, the formation of the Shaw Prize in Computer Science offers a refreshing opportunity for innovators and thinkers in the field. This initiative signifies an important acknowledgment of the critical role computer science plays in addressing contemporary challenges while propelling technological advancement. Professor Jeannette M Wing, Executive Vice President for Research and a strong advocate of computer science, concluded the committee's reflections: “It’s a tribute to computer science for The Shaw Prize Foundation to recognize our field and to honor those who have not only provided a scientific understanding of computation but also developed technology that has transformed every aspect of our lives.”

With anticipation building towards the nominations period in late 2026, the Shaw Prize Foundation encourages contributions that embody the spirit of innovation, challenging future generations to push the boundaries of what is possible in computer science.