Quantum Dots Pioneers Clinch 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry; Accidental Early Release Causes Stir

By Hatem Mamdouh On Oct 4, 2023

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, on Wednesday, formally recognized the monumental achievements of scientists in the field of quantum dots, awarding the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry to Dr. Muong Ji Baoundi, Dr. Louis E. Bros, and Dr. Alexei E. Ekimov. Their groundbreaking research focused on the discovery and structuring of quantum dots.

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has decided to award the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry-Image Source: X

Quantum dots, essentially nano-sized particles, have played an instrumental role in the development of LED lighting and television screens. Their potential doesn’t stop there; they are also being explored as guidance tools for surgeons during the removal of cancerous tissues.

This coveted award, which has been a symbol of recognition for over a century, comes with a cash prize of 11 million Swedish krona, approximately 997,959 US dollars.

BREAKING NEWS
The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has decided to award the 2023 #NobelPrize in Chemistry to Moungi G. Bawendi, Louis E. Brus and Alexei I. Ekimov “for the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots.” pic.twitter.com/qJCXc72Dj8

— The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 4, 2023

However, an unusual incident marked this year’s announcement. Earlier on Wednesday, the academy inadvertently disclosed the names of the three laureates, despite indications from the awarding institute that the decision was hours away from being public. This early release was confirmed in an email correspondence, which the daily Swedish newspaper ‘Dagens Nyheter’ reported.

Yohan Akfist, the head of the Nobel Chemistry Committee at the academy, conveyed to Reuters about the oversight, stating, “It’s an error on the part of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Our meeting was scheduled for 07:30 GMT. Thus, a decision hadn’t been made and the winners were not selected.”