Infosys Prize 2024 Winners Announced with a New Direction Emphasizing Early Recognition of Exceptional Talent

Bengaluru: The Infosys Science Foundation (ISF) announced the winners of the Infosys Prize 2024 in six categories — Economics, Engineering and Computer Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, Life Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Physical Sciences. For the first time, this prestigious award emphasizes early recognition of exceptional talent under the age of 40.

In a press release, ISF President Kris Gopalakrishnan said that the Infosys Prize has played a pivotal role in recognizing brilliant minds whose contributions are shaping the future of research and science. "This year, we refocused to reward early career researchers under the age of 40, recognising their immense potential and the promise of paradigm-changing work."

The winners come from various institutions across the world and have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Among them are Arun Chandrasekhar, Professor at Stanford University; Shyam Gollakota, Professor at the University of Washington; Mahmood Kooria, Lecturer at the University of Edinburgh; Siddhesh Kamat, Associate Professor at IISER-Pune; Neena Gupta, Professor at the Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata; and Vedika Khemani, Associate Professor at Stanford University.

For instance, Arun Chandrasekhar received the prize for his work in social and economic networks, while Shyam Gollakota was recognized for his impactful research and technology translation in engineering domains. Mahmood Kooria made pioneering studies on maritime Islam from a global perspective, revealing the role of Islamic law in shaping economic, political, and cultural transformations.

The winners received a gold medal, a citation, and a prize purse of $100,000 (or its equivalent in Indian rupees). The laureates are selected by an international panel of jurors comprising renowned scholars and experts. "The Infosys Prize remains the largest award in India that acknowledges excellence in science and research," said ISF President Kris Gopalakrishnan.

In addition to the new direction with a focus on early career researchers, the winners also have several prestigious international awards under their belt, including the Nobel Prize, Fields Medal, Dan David Prize, MacArthur 'Genius' Grant, Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, and Marconi Prize.