Foresight Institute’s acclaimed Feynman Prizes, named in honor of the renowned physicist Richard Feynman, laud notable accomplishments in nanotechnology, focusing on atomically precise manufacturing through innovative nanosystems. Foresight Institute also bestows the Distinguished Student Award, spotlighting an upcoming individual for their exceptional work in advancing nanotechnology development and understanding.

The awards are recognized in the field of nanotechnology for identifying talent; notably, in 2016, Sir J. Fraser Stoddart received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his contributions to the design and synthesis of molecular machines, a mere nine years after being honored with a Foresight Institute Feynman Prize in Experiment.

“…the rewards awaiting those who achieve significant nanotechnology breakthroughs will be far greater than the prize itself…”

– K. Eric Drexler, Founder of the Feynman Prizes

2023 Winners’ Spotlight

Feynman Prize in Theory

Professor Alexandre Tkatchenko, University of Luxembourg

Professor Alexandre Tkatchenko, fellow of the American Physical Society, leads a multidisciplinary team of 35 researchers who are revolutionizing the accuracy and efficiency of quantum-mechanical methods and making them applicable to realistic (bio)molecular systems. Tkatchenko graduated in computer science, did a PhD in physical chemistry, a postdoc in condensed matter physics, and became a professor of physics at the University of Luxembourg in 2015. His legacy in the field is underscored by the development of methods that seamlessly merge quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and machine learning to unravel the intricacies of complex molecules and materials. Recognized with accolades such as the 2020 Dirac Medal, the van der Waals award, and three European Research Council grants, Tkatchenko has shaped the understanding in his field, particularly through pioneering work in modeling critical van der Waals interactions and leading innovative research in machine-learned force fields. In addition to his academic achievements, Tkatchenko co-founded Quastify GmbH, a start-up focused on navigating chemical spaces

Feynman Prize in Experiment

Professor James J. Collins, MIT

Professor James J. Collins from MIT has fundamentally shaped the field of synthetic biology with his groundbreaking work on synthetic gene circuits, delivering practical applications in diagnostics and therapeutics. Stationed at the Wyss Institute at Harvard University and the Broad Institute, Collins’ work goes beyond the lab, with technologies licensed to over 25 biotech firms and several co-founded companies. His creation of a genetic toggle switch has pioneered programmable diagnostics and introduced the potential for on-demand production of critical medical supplies, such as vaccine antigens and antibiotics. With accolades like the MacArthur “Genius” Award, Collins synthesizes his roles as an academic and entrepreneur, providing innovative health solutions that span globally and influencing both the scientific and medical communities.

Distinguished Student Award

Qiancheng Xiong, Yale University

Qiancheng Xiong, of Yale University, has an exceptional trajectory in molecular nanotechnology. Xiong has developed notable programmable DNA nanodevices. His significant role in using CRISPR-Cas12a technology to refine DNA-origami structures has paved the way for future dynamic nanodevices in cellular studies. Moreover, his work with hybrid toxin-DNA nanopores demonstrates potential in creating synthetic compartments with controlled molecular exchange and holds promise for targeted applications in diseased cell perforation. His collaborative studies, employing DNA-origami nanostructures, have spotlighted the versatility of molecular nanotechnology in probing biological systems. Beyond his research, Xiong has made substantial contributions to the field and teaching, illuminating the potential of DNA nanotechnology through his co-authored review on DNA origami-engineered nanomaterials.

Celebrating Achievement at Vision Weekend 2023

In honor of their phenomenal contributions, all winners are invited to Foresight Institute’s Vision Weekend, with two opportunities for global attendance:

• Vision Weekend France, held at Chateau du FAy, Burgundy, November 17-19, 2023
• Vision Weekend USA, to be held at the Internet Archive in San Francisco, December 1-3, 2023

Additional details about speakers, agenda, and the full program can be found at: https://foresight.org/vision-weekends-2023/

Explore more about the prizes and previous winners: https://foresight.org/foresight-feynman-prizes/

Media Contact

Niamh Peren, Foresight Institute, 44 7460066902, [email protected], https://foresight.org 

SOURCE Foresight Institute