What does it take to recognize groundbreaking science?
Every two years, the Ernest Solvay Prize, supported by the Syensqo Fund, brings together leading scientists from around the world with one challenging task: recognizing research with the potential to shape the future.
Behind the Prize lies a scientific legacy that goes back more than 160 years, built on curiosity, rigorous thinking and the conviction that bold ideas can change the world.
A legacy of science and curiosity
In 1863, Ernest Solvay founded the company from which Syensqo originates, driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, a passion for science and a belief in its power to advance society.
He also understood that progress begins by convening great minds — encouraging debate, protecting curiosity, and elevating excellence. In 1911, he brought together the leading scientists of his time at the historic Solvay Conferences, creating a forum where groundbreaking ideas in physics and chemistry were debated and refined.
More than a century later, that same belief in the power of science lives on. Today, the Syensqo Fund supports the Ernest Solvay Prize, continuing a tradition of bringing exceptional scientific minds and ideas into the spotlight.
Meet the Ernest Solvay Prize 2026 jury
Selecting the laureate is entrusted to an independent international jury of leading scientists, including Nobel laureates and former Ernest Solvay Prize winners.
Their role goes beyond recognizing scientific excellence. They look for truly original research — discoveries that open new pathways, expand the boundaries of chemistry and materials science, and hold the potential to benefit society.
And behind those distinguished scientific careers are curious minds and personalities.
Behind the scenes of the jury deliberations
So how do you recognize a breakthrough?
During a day of deliberations, jury members bring their different disciplines, experiences and perspectives to the table. Together, they examine the work of the shortlisted candidates, exchange views and challenge one another’s perspectives before reaching their decision. In many ways, these exchanges echo an idea that inspired Ernest Solvay more than a century ago: progress begins by bringing great minds together.
Behind the scientific expertise are also different personalities, backgrounds and perspectives. We wanted to get to know them a little better.
Chemistry or Physics?
For Professor Sven Lidin, President of the 2026 Ernest Solvay Prize jury, the answer is easy: Chemistry.
We challenged him to a quick round of “This or That” — a lighter way to meet the scientist behind the Jury President.
One jury, many perspectives
We also asked the jury members, together with Syensqo CEO Mike Radossich, to finish a few sentences.
Their answers are personal and diverse, but share one conviction: science has the power to shape a better future.
The 2026 laureate: Xiaowei Zhuang
The 2026 Ernest Solvay Prize was awarded to Professor Xiaowei Zhuang of Harvard University and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute for her pioneering work in advanced molecular and cellular imaging.
Her technologies allow scientists to see the inner organization of cells and tissues with extraordinary clarity. By making the invisible visible at the molecular level, her work has changed how researchers study living systems and opened new pathways for discovery across biology and medicine.
Professor Zhuang received the Ernest Solvay Prize on March 10, 2026, at the Palais des Académies in Brussels.
For the Syensqo Fund, supporting the Ernest Solvay Prize is also about looking ahead: giving remarkable science the recognition it deserves and inspiring new generations to pursue bold questions of their own.
Because advancing science starts with asking questions.
Even the simple ones.
Chemistry or Physics?