What if we could see exactly how life unfolds, molecule by molecule, inside our cells?
Our 2026 Ernest Solvay Prize laureate, Professor Xiaowei Zhuang, has developed powerful new imaging techniques that allow us to do exactly that. Her pioneering work enables scientists to visualize the inner organization of cells with extraordinary precision, expanding the frontiers of chemistry, biology and medicine.
Making the invisible visible
Awarded every two years through the Syensqo Fund, the Ernest Solvay Prize recognizes scientific discoveries that have the potential to shape the chemistry of tomorrow and advance human progress. The latest laureate is Professor Xiaowei Zhuang of Harvard University and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, whose work has transformed how scientists observe and understand living systems.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Ernest Solvay Prize,” says Professor Zhuang. “This recognition highlights the importance of curiosity-driven research and reflects the collective efforts of many talented students, postdocs and collaborators who worked together to make the inner workings of cells and organisms visible and understandable.”
A breakthrough that changes how we understand living systems
Using advanced imaging techniques, Professor Zhuang’s work enables scientists to map the molecular architecture of cells and tissues at an unprecedented scale. Her methods reveal how biological systems respond to change and precisely where those responses occur, down to individual cells.
This level of insight provides a clearer understanding of how biological systems are organized and how they evolve in response to external stimuli. And it has far-reaching implications, ranging from improving our understanding of fundamental life processes to opening up opportunities for new approaches in diagnostics and therapeutics.
This is fundamental research with real-world impact. It allows researchers to study everything from gene expression to disease progression with far greater precision, ensuring that the structure and function of biological systems can be understood in their proper context.
The Ernest Solvay Prize: science that shapes a better future
Established in 2013, the Ernest Solvay Prize by Syensqo is rooted in the legacy of the historic Solvay Conferences — and continues this pioneering spirit. It is awarded every two years through our philanthropic arm, the Syensqo Fund, and honors breakthrough discoveries in fundamental science that contribute to human progress.
The selection process involves an independent international jury of renowned scientists. Their job is to select the person they believe to be the most distinguished scientific researcher, and who will ultimately receive the €300,000 award associated with the Prize. It’s a process that underscores the rigor and global stature of this recognition.
Since its creation, the Prize has recognized scientists whose work reshapes entire fields. Previous laureates include Peter G.Schultz, Carolyn Bertozzi, Katalin Karikó, Ben Feringa, Susumu Kitagawa and Omar Yaghi. Professors Feringa, Bertozzi, Karikó, Kitagawa and Yaghi have all gone on to receive Nobel Prizes, in 2016, 2022, 2023 and 2025 respectively, underlining the role of the Ernest Solvay Prize in identifying transformative research.
“It is an honor to award Professor Xiaowei Zhuang the 2026 Ernest Solvay Prize,” says Syensqo CEO Mike Radossich. “Her discoveries have opened new ways to study life at its most fundamental level. The Prize reflects our deep belief that fundamental research fuels long-term innovation and celebrates bold science that advances human progress, improves lives and helps build a more sustainable future.”
Celebrating science
Professor Zhuang received the Ernest Solvay Prize on March 10, 2026, at the Palais des Académies in Brussels, in a ceremony held in the presence of His Majesty King Philippe. The event brought together leading scientists, institutional figures and industry partners to celebrate the role of science in shaping the future.
The following day, she engaged with Syensqo researchers and young scientists, exchanging ideas and exploring new avenues for collaboration. This workshop was a great example of what the Ernest Solvay Prize is all about: celebrating breakthrough science while strengthening collaboration and inspiring innovation that will shape the next generation of scientists.
