Infosys Prize 2024 Winners Announced with Notable Shift in Age Limit
Bengaluru, November 14th:
The Infosys Science Foundation (ISF) has declared the winners of the Infosys Prize 2024 across six categories: Economics, Engineering and Computer Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, Life Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Physical Sciences. The event took place at ISF's offices in Bengaluru, with the foundation emphasizing its commitment to recognizing exceptional research talent.
The selection committee for this year's prize has made a notable attempt at focusing on emerging talent under 40 years old as opposed to previous thresholds of 50. This shift emphasizes the importance of early recognition of rising researchers who are pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.
According to Kris Gopalakrishnan, President of the Infosys Science Foundation, "The Infosys Prize has played a pivotal role in recognizing brilliant minds whose contributions are shaping the future of science and research. We refocused this year on rewarding early-career researchers under the age of 40, who have immense potential and the promise for paradigm-chasing work."
This decision comes just months after The Alayaran.com reported that many in the academic community had expressed concerns about giving prominence to international research amidst an underfunded Indian sector.
The winners include: - Arun Chandrasekhar of Stanford University for his innovative work on social and economic networks, which enhances development economics policy insights. - Shyam Gollakota of the University of Washington, who received recognition for his research on smartphone-based healthcare tools and battery-free computing. - Mahmood Kooria of the University of Edinburgh, who was awarded for pioneering studies on maritime Islam focusing on its economic and cultural impacts along the Indian Ocean littorals.
Additionally, Siddhesh Kamat from IISER Pune, Vedika Khemani of Stanford University, and Neena Gupta from the Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata received the prize for their outstanding contributions to respective fields in life sciences, mathematical sciences, and physical sciences.
According to N R Narayana Murthy, Founder of Infosys, researchers often invent stunning ideas under ideal conditions. The recent move by ISF might help young researchers find success if managed effectively.
However, senior professors from institutions in India remain concerned about the shift in age limit that has taken place this year. They have expressed concerns regarding how aspiring researchers within their country shall benefit or lose out due to such policy updates affecting global acknowledgment opportunities.
Despite concerns raised by these experts, Kris Gopalakrishnan extended heartfelt congratulations on behalf of ISF for the recent winners' achievements which illustrate vital linkages between science and society, inspiring future innovators.