On the Chinese mainland, the Future Science Prize — a prestigious privately sponsored award launched in 2016 — honored eight scientists this Wednesday across three categories: Life Science, Physical Science, and Mathematics & Computer Science.
Life Science: Uncovering the Roots of Flight
Paleontologists Ji Qiang, Xu Xing, and Zhou Zhonghe landed the Life Science Prize for resolving a century-old debate on bird origins. Their fossil research traced a clear evolutionary path from theropod dinosaurs to modern birds, reshaping how we think about vertebrate evolution.
Physical Science: Cracking Topological Codes
Fang Zhong, Dai Xi, and Ding Hong were celebrated for pioneering computational predictions and lab confirmations of topological electronic materials. These quantum materials promise ultra-efficient electronics, from spintronics to quantum computing. "We can apply topological materials to design devices that cut power use and unlock new functions," notes Dai Xi, who also is exploring complex multi-electron duets for next-gen superconductors.
Math & Computer Science: Memory for the AI Era
Lu Chih-yuan claimed the Mathematics & Computer Science Prize for breakthroughs in non-volatile memory technologies. His innovations are primed to power faster AI processors, smoother mobile experiences, and more reliable cloud and edge computing.
To date, the Future Science Prize has spotlighted 46 trailblazers shaping science’s frontier. This year’s laureates not only solved big scientific puzzles — from the dawn of flight to quantum phenomena — but they also laid the groundwork for the technologies driving tomorrow’s global innovations.
Reference(s):
China recognizes trailblazing science – from future tech to dinosaurs
cgtn.com
