Trio of Researchers Awarded Nobel Prize in Chemistry for Innovations in Quantum Dots Technology

Three distinguished scientists have been conferred the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their groundbreaking research on quantum dots—microscopic particles that emit intensely vivid colors and find applications in electronics and medical imaging technologies.

The laureates, Moungi Bawendi from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Louis Brus, associated with Columbia University; and Alexei Ekimov from Nanocrystals Technology Inc., have been recognized for their contributions to the development of particles that measure merely a few atoms across and “possess exceptional properties, now illuminating devices such as television displays and LED lighting systems,” as stated by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences during the prize announcement in Stockholm.

“These quantum dots serve as catalysts in chemical processes, and their brilliant illumination can aid surgeons in identifying tumor tissues,” added the Academy.

The constrained motion of electrons in quantum dots influences how these particles absorb and emit light, resulting in exceptionally vivid colors.

Further Developments in the 2023 Nobel Prize

Earlier, a trio of researchers were granted the Nobel Prize in Physics for their fleeting observation of the rapidly spinning electron world. Meanwhile, Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman were bestowed the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their research enabling the formulation of mRNA vaccines for combating COVID-19.

In an uncharacteristic event, Swedish media prematurely disclosed the names of the chemistry laureates before the official announcement. “An unintentional press release was disseminated for reasons that remain undetermined. We are actively investigating the incident,” said Hans Ellegren, the secretary-general of the Academy, during a news conference where the prize was publicly revealed. “We deeply regret this occurrence.”

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, which is responsible for presenting the Nobel Prizes in Physics, Chemistry, and Economic Sciences, initiates the nomination process a year prior by inviting submissions from numerous global scholars and university professors. Each prize has a dedicated committee that deliberates on prospective candidates through a sequence of meetings over the year. Ultimately, the committee suggests one or multiple candidates to the full Academy for the final vote. The selection process is confidential, and details about nominees who are not selected remain undisclosed for a half-century.

At ages 78 and 80 respectively, Ekimov and Brus are considered early pioneers in quantum dot technology. Bawendi, aged 62, is acknowledged for revolutionizing the manufacturing of quantum dots, “yielding almost flawless particles indispensable for practical applications,” according to the Academy.

When queried about his reaction, Bawendi expressed that he was “utterly surprised, fatigued, astounded, unforeseen, and extremely honored.” Regarding the real-world applications of quantum dots, he mentioned, “The community began understanding the potential implications around the mid-90s.”

Bawendi was unaware of his winning the prize until he was contacted directly by the Academy.

This week also saw the Physics prize going to researchers Anne L’Huillier, Pierre Agostini, and Ferenc Krausz for unveiling the first fleeting look into the swift world of rotating electrons.

Hungarian-American Katalin Karikó and American Drew Weissman were earlier awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their pioneering work that facilitated the development of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19.

With the announcement of the Chemistry award, we are now halfway through the Nobel Prize season. Literature, Peace, and Economic Sciences are the remaining categories, with announcements scheduled every weekday until October 9.

The Nobel Foundation has increased the prize money this year by 10% to 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately $1 million). Winners also receive an 18-carat gold medal and diploma during the official Nobel ceremonies in December.

Reported by Corder from The Hague, Netherlands.

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More about Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2023

• Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences
• Nobel Foundation Official Website
• Quantum Dots: An Overview
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Columbia University
• Nanocrystals Technology Inc.
• 2023 Nobel Prize in Physics
• 2023 Nobel Prize in Medicine
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