Prizes and Awards

EurASc Members Honoured as 2024 Honorary Fellows of the Chinese Chemical Society

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EurASc Members Honoured as 2024 Honorary Fellows of the Chinese Chemical Society

The European Academy of Sciences is pleased to share the news that two of its distinguished Fellows, Prof. Katharina Kohse-Höinghaus and Prof. Jonathan L. Sessler, have been elected Honorary Fellows of the Chinese Chemical Society (CCS) — the highest distinction awarded by the CCS to eminent international chemists.

The announcement was made in April 2024 following a formal election by the CCS Standing Board, composed of over 40 members. Prof. Kohse-Höinghaus and Prof. Sessler are among the eleven scientists selected globally as part of the 2024 class of Honorary Fellows. The CCS currently counts only 103 Honorary Fellows worldwide, a testament to the selectivity and prestige of the honour.

Founded in 1932 in Nanjing, the Chinese Chemical Society today represents more than 120,000 individual members and over 180 institutional members, playing a major role in advancing chemical sciences both nationally and internationally.

🔗 Chinese Chemical Society website
📄 Full Honorary Fellows list (2009–2024)

 

Prof. Katharina Kohse-Höinghaus

Prof. Kohse-Höinghaus is internationally recognised for her pioneering work in combustion diagnostics, using advanced techniques such as laser-induced fluorescence, cavity ring-down spectroscopy, and emission spectroscopy. Her research on biofuel combustion mechanisms and pollutant formation has significantly contributed to the development of low-temperature, cleaner combustion processes.

She is a foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, a member of the German Academy of Sciences and the German National Academy of Engineering. She has maintained long-standing collaborations with Chinese institutions, trained generations of Chinese researchers, and contributed to shaping China’s innovation policy landscape. In 2024, Prof. Kohse-Höinghaus is also the only woman among the CCS Honorary Fellows, further highlighting her exceptional achievements and leadership.

 

Prof. Jonathan L. Sessler

Prof. Sessler is celebrated for his innovative work in functional molecular design, particularly in the fields of calixphyrins and molecular recognition with applications in cancer therapy, drug delivery, and environmental sensing. His synthetic methodologies for porphyrins and related compounds have had widespread impact in biomedical and supramolecular chemistry.

Prof. Sessler is a foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and also a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the US National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Inventors, and the European Academy of Sciences (EurASc). His active engagement with the Chinese scientific community has been instrumental in strengthening China–US cooperation through academic platforms, joint research initiatives, and researcher training programs.

 

This distinction follows a growing recognition of EurASc members by the CCS: in 2021, Prof. Bao-Lian Su, was also elected CCS Honorary Fellow for his pioneering contributions to inorganic material chemistry and his role in fostering scientific collaboration between China and Europe.

EurASc congratulates Prof. Kohse-Höinghaus and Prof. Sessler on this prestigious distinction and celebrates the continued international impact of its Fellows in advancing chemical sciences worldwide.

📸 News and citations courtesy of the Chinese Chemical Society and institutional sources.
🔗 Full 2024 Honorary Fellows Announcement

Gerhard Alfred Holzapfel Receives Laurea Magistrale ad Honorem in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Parma

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Gerhard Alfred Holzapfel Receives Laurea Magistrale ad Honorem in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Parma

The European Academy of Sciences is proud to announce that Prof. Gerhard Alfred Holzapfel, Fellow of the Engineering Division, has been awarded a Laurea Magistrale ad Honorem in Mechanical Engineering by the University of Parma, in recognition of his outstanding scientific achievements and global impact in the field of biomechanics.

The degree was conferred on 20 May 2025 in Parma, Italy, as a tribute to what the university described as “the research and career of one of the greatest contemporary scholars in biomechanics.” Prof. Holzapfel is currently Professor of Biomechanics and Director of the Institute of Biomechanics at Graz University of Technology, and Adjunct Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.

A prolific and influential researcher, Prof. Holzapfel is the author of 9 monographs, over 30 textbook chapters, and more than 370 scientific publications, which have collectively garnered over 26,000 citations. He is especially renowned for his contributions to the development of the GOH model—a constitutive model for the mechanical behaviour of human arteries, developed with collaborators Gasser and Ogden. This model has become a cornerstone in arterial biomechanics, with transformative applications in diagnostics, pathology research, and the design of next-generation vascular prosthetics.

In their formal remarks, Prof. Rinaldo Garziera, Director of the Department of Systems Engineering and Industrial Technologies, and Prof. Luca Collini, President of the Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, praised Prof. Holzapfel’s scientific depth, academic leadership, and the societal impact of his research. Particular attention was given to the implications of his work in patient-specific modelling and the integration of vascular dynamics with cardiocirculatory systems.

The university’s Rector, Prof. Paolo Martelli, stated:

“Prof. Holzapfel is one of the most authoritative and influential minds in his field. Scientific research, as embodied by his work, is a value not only for academia but for society. This recognition is our tribute to a career of extraordinary contributions.”

In his lectio magistralis, titled “The Power of Interdisciplinary Research: Biomechanics as an Example”, Prof. Holzapfel reflected on the evolution of biomechanics—from Leonardo da Vinci’s anatomical studies to today’s mechanobiological challenges—highlighting the importance of cross-disciplinary integration:

“Today, biomechanics is the development, extension and application of mechanics to answer weighty questions in biology and medicine. The future lies in interdisciplinary research.”

Before the ceremony, Prof. Holzapfel signed the Book of Honour of the University of Parma, leaving a message of gratitude and humility for this academic distinction.

EurASc warmly congratulates Prof. Holzapfel on this prestigious recognition, which celebrates not only his scientific excellence but also his lifelong commitment to improving human health through engineering and applied research.

📸 News and photos courtesy of the Università degli Studi di Parma.
🔗 Official Announcement

Mioara Mandea Honoured with the 2024 Dolomieu Prize and Elected AGU Fellow

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Mioara Mandea Honoured with the 2024 Dolomieu Prize and Elected AGU Fellow

The European Academy of Sciences is proud to congratulate Prof. Mioara Mandea, member of the Earth and Environmental Sciences Division, on receiving two prestigious recognitions for her outstanding scientific contributions.

 

🏅 2024 Dolomieu Prize – BRGM

Prof. Mandea was awarded the Dolomieu Prize 2024, granted by BRGM (Bureau de Recherches Géologiques et Minières) under the auspices of the French Academy of Sciences. This annual prize honours geoscientists whose work has significantly advanced the understanding of geological and environmental processes. Prof. Mandea was recognised for her internationally acclaimed career in geophysics, particularly her innovative research on the Earth’s magnetic field.

More information available on the BRGM website.

 

🌍 Elected Fellow of the American Geophysical Union (AGU)

In parallel, Prof. Mandea has been elected as a Fellow of the American Geophysical Union (AGU) – one of the highest honours bestowed by the global geoscience community. This distinction recognises scientists who have made exceptional contributions to Earth and space sciences and who have demonstrated visionary leadership and impact. She joins a distinguished circle of international experts who are shaping the future of geophysical research.

Read more on the CNES press release.

 

 

The EurASc community extends its warmest congratulations to Prof. Mandea for these remarkable achievements, which reflect the excellence and global impact of European science.

Cato T. Laurencin Appointed Knight Commander of the Order of St. Lucia

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Cato T. Laurencin Appointed Knight Commander of the Order of St. Lucia

The European Academy of Sciences is proud to celebrate a prestigious recognition granted to one of its distinguished Fellows. Professor Cato T. Laurencin, EurASc Member since 2022, has been appointed Knight Commander of the Order of St. Lucia, one of the highest national honours of the Caribbean island, established by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and awarded under the auspices of His Majesty King Charles III.

This title was conferred upon Prof. Laurencin in recognition of his outstanding scientific, medical, and societal contributions, particularly as the founder of the field of regenerative engineering — an interdisciplinary domain that bridges materials science, nanotechnology, stem cell science, and clinical translation to revolutionise tissue regeneration and orthopaedic care.

Prof. Laurencin is internationally renowned as a visionary in translational science and equity-driven innovation. His work has influenced not only the scientific community but also the lives of countless patients through novel technologies and treatments. Among his many distinctions, he holds the rare honour of being the only surgeon elected to all four major U.S. National Academies:

  • National Academy of Sciences

  • National Academy of Engineering

  • National Academy of Medicine

  • National Academy of Inventors

At the University of Connecticut (UConn), Prof. Laurencin serves as:

  • Chief Executive Officer, The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering

  • University Professor (the highest academic title at UConn)

  • Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Endowed Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery

He also holds professorships in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering.

In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Laurencin reflected on the honour with humility and pride:

“St. Lucia is an extraordinary country, with extraordinary people. In being Knighted through the auspices of King Charles III, I am proud to be included among fellow Knights such as the late Sir Derek Walcott, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature.”

This distinction is not only a celebration of Prof. Laurencin’s scientific legacy but also a tribute to his tireless efforts to inspire future generations, promote diversity and inclusion in science, and foster global collaboration in service of humanity.

The European Academy of Sciences warmly congratulates Prof. Laurencin for this well-deserved honour, which perfectly reflects EurASc’s values of excellence, impact, and service to society.

 

 

📄 Source: University of Connecticut News
📸 Photo credits: University of Connecticut
🔗 Read the full article on UConn Today

Martin Carrier Awarded Doctor Honoris Causa by the University of Athens

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Martin Carrier Awarded Doctor Honoris Causa by the University of Athens

The European Academy of Sciences is delighted to announce that Professor Martin Carrier, esteemed Fellow since 2014 and Head of the EurASc Division of Social Sciences and Humanities from 2016 to 2024, has been awarded the prestigious title of Doctor Honoris Causa by the Department of History and Philosophy of Science at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA).​

The honorary ceremony took place on Thursday, 20 March 2025, in the Great Hall of NKUA. The event commenced with an address by the Rector of NKUA, Professor Gerasimos Siasos, who highlighted Prof. Carrier’s significant research contributions and his pivotal role in bridging philosophy with practical scientific research. Following this, Professor Chrysostomos Mantzavinos, also EurASc Fellow and Professor of Theoretical Philosophy at NKUA, presented an overview of Dr. Carrier’s work and impact.

The formal conferral of the honorary doctorate was conducted by Professor Anthony Hatzimoysis, Chair of the Department of History and Philosophy of Science, who read the Department’s Resolution, the Award, and the Honorary Diploma. Subsequently, the Dean of the School of Science, Professor Aristeidis Parmakelis, adorned Dr. Carrier with the academic gown of the School. The ceremony concluded with Dr. Carrier delivering a lecture titled ‘Science Under Attack: Dealing With Failure in Science and With Science Denial’, addressing contemporary challenges faced by the scientific community.

In his address, Rector Siasos remarked:​

“Dr. Carrier’s academic career is distinguished by significant research in key areas of expertise. His contribution to the study of the dynamic evolution of scientific theories and the interconnection between philosophy on the one hand and practical and applied scientific research on the other has been decisive.” 

Professor Carrier, currently serving as Professor of Philosophy at Bielefeld University in Germany, has garnered international acclaim for his extensive work in the philosophy of science, particularly concerning scientific reasoning, the science-policy interface, and the societal role of science. His research has profoundly influenced the discourse on how scientific knowledge addresses global challenges.​

The European Academy of Sciences extends its heartfelt congratulations to Professor Carrier on this distinguished recognition, underscoring his exceptional contributions to both science and society.​

For more details on the ceremony, please refer to the official announcement by the University of Athens >>HERE<<

📸 Photo credits: National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA)
📝 This article was prepared by the EurASc Secretariat based on the official announcement published on the University of Athens website. 

Avelino Corma and Helmut Schwarz Win 2024 BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Basic Sciences

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Avelino Corma and Helmut Schwarz Win 2024 BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Basic Sciences

The European Academy of Sciences (EurASc) is honoured to announce that two of its distinguished Members, Prof. Avelino Corma and Prof. Helmut Schwarz, have been awarded the 2024 BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Basic Sciences, jointly with Prof. John F. Hartwig, for their seminal contributions to the field of catalysis.

The jury praised the laureates for their “fundamental advances that have made it possible to control and accelerate chemical reactions”, thereby improving the efficiency of key industrial processes while significantly reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. Their combined work covers the entire spectrum of catalysis — from heterogeneous to homogeneous to gas-phase reactions — and is driving progress in areas ranging from sustainable fuel production to pharmaceutical synthesis.

This international recognition is yet another testament to the scientific leadership and global impact of EurASc Fellows within the worldwide research community.

 

Catalysis as a Pillar of a Sustainable Chemical Future

Prof. Avelino Corma

Institute of Chemical Technology (ITQ), Universitat Politècnica de València – CSIC, Spain

Prof. Corma is a pioneer in the field of heterogeneous catalysis, having developed solid catalysts based on porous materials that are now extensively used in industrial processes to produce cleaner fuels and chemicals with greater energy efficiency. His catalysts are implemented globally in over 22 refineries, and his work has led to the replacement of petroleum-based feedstocks with biomass-derived alternatives, enabling a circular approach to chemical production.

“This technology allows us to reduce the use of fossil hydrocarbons and to prevent the release of pollutants into the atmosphere,” said Prof. Corma. “Catalysts will also help us capture CO₂ and develop processes with far less environmental impact.”

He holds more than 100 patents and his innovations have applications in the production of fuels, plastics, cosmetics and even food.

Prof. Helmut Schwarz

Technische Universität Berlin, Germany

Prof. Schwarz has transformed the understanding of gas-phase catalysis, using advanced mass spectrometry techniques to track chemical reactions atom by atom. His work provides deep mechanistic insights into catalytic processes that were previously poorly understood.

A notable industrial application of his research helped optimise a catalyst at the Degussa chemical plant, solving problems with catalyst fouling in methane-ammonia coupling, a critical step for producing key compounds in the energy sector.

“We show how basic research can lead to very practical improvements in industrial chemical processes,” stated Prof. Schwarz.

 

From Molecular Design to Industrial Impact

The third laureate, Prof. John F. Hartwig (University of California, Berkeley), was honoured for his development of metal-based catalysts that have revolutionised homogeneous catalysis, particularly in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds. Many FDA-approved drugs, including those for cancer, HIV, and hepatitis, rely on chemical transformations developed in his lab.

Together, the three laureates have covered the full landscape of catalysis, providing tools and insights that are shaping the future of green chemistry and resource-efficient manufacturing.

 

A Recognition of Global Scientific Excellence

The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Awards are regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious recognitions of scientific achievement. Over the past 15 editions, 31 laureates have gone on to win Nobel Prizes, positioning this award as a leading indicator of global scientific excellence.

The European Academy of Sciences warmly congratulates Prof. Corma and Prof. Schwarz for this exceptional distinction. Their recognition reinforces EurASc’s mission to support and promote scientific excellence with impact on society, innovation, and sustainability.

 

📝 Sources and images:

Gary J. Schrobilgen Honored with the 2025 M. Frederick Hawthorne Award in Main-Group Inorganic Chemistry

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Gary J. Schrobilgen Honored with the 2025 M. Frederick Hawthorne Award in Main-Group Inorganic Chemistry

The European Academy of Sciences (EurASc) proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of Prof. Gary J. Schrobilgen, Emeritus Professor of Chemistry at McMaster University, who has been honored with the 2025 M. Frederick Hawthorne Award in Main-Group Inorganic Chemistry, presented by the American Chemical Society (ACS).

 

Recognition for Excellence in Main-Group Inorganic Chemistry

Prof. Schrobilgen has been named the recipient of this prestigious award in recognition of his pioneering contributions to the synthetic chemistries of Group 13–18 elements, including strong oxidizers, hypervalent species, high-oxidation-state compounds, and polyatomic anions.

Supported by an endowed fund established by M. Frederick Hawthorne, UCLA, and colleagues, the award will be presented at the ACS Spring National Meeting in San Diego, California (March 23–27, 2025). A dedicated symposium in his honor, jointly organized by the ACS Divisions of Fluorine Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry, will take place at the ACS Fall 2025 National Meeting in Washington, D.C. (August 17–21, 2025).

Prof. Schrobilgen has confirmed that he will receive the Hawthorne Award later this month in San Diego and will share official photos from the event upon his return to Canada in early April.

A Legacy of Scientific Excellence

Prof. Schrobilgen’s work has profoundly expanded the boundaries of synthetic and structural inorganic chemistry, particularly in noble-gas compounds, multinuclear magnetic resonance, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography. His pioneering research in fluorine chemistry continues to inspire new discoveries and advancements in the field.

EurASc extends its warmest congratulations to Prof. Schrobilgen for this exceptional achievement, further solidifying his legacy as a global leader in chemistry.

🔗 Stay tuned for event photos and updates in the coming months!

#EurASc #ScientificExcellence #FluorineChemistry #InorganicChemistry #ACS #GarySchrobilgen

Helmut Schwarz Awarded the Wolf Prize in Chemistry 2025

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Helmut Schwarz Awarded the Wolf Prize in Chemistry 2025

The European Academy of Sciences (EurASc) is proud to congratulate Prof. Helmut Schwarz on being awarded the prestigious Wolf Prize in Chemistry 2025 for his groundbreaking contributions to quantifying reactive species in the gas phase to solve fundamental problems in catalysis.

A distinguished scientist and thought leader, Prof. Schwarz has made pioneering advances in chemical reactivity, catalysis, and molecular science, fundamentally reshaping our understanding of metal-mediated catalysis, C-H bond activation, and single-atom catalysis (SAC). His work has not only expanded fundamental scientific knowledge but has also paved the way for innovative applications in sustainable chemistry and clean energy solutions.

EurASc had the honor of recognizing Prof. Schwarz’s exceptional scientific achievements in 2021, when he was awarded the Leonardo da Vinci Award for his outstanding contributions to chemistry. Now, following his Wolf Prize distinction, EurASc is pleased to announce his automatic elevation to Honorary Member status, in accordance with the Academy’s Statutes and Bylaws.

On behalf of the EurASc President, Prof. Rodrigo Martins, Vice-President, Prof. Dr. Alain Tressaud, and the Head of the Chemistry Division, Prof. Pierre Braunstein, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Helmut Schwarz on this well-deserved recognition. His scientific legacy continues to inspire and shape the future of chemistry.

EurASc remains committed to honoring and promoting excellence in science, and we are privileged to count Prof. Schwarz among our esteemed members.

🔗 For more on the Wolf Prize in Chemistry 2025, visit: https://wolffund.org.il/helmut-schwarz/

Alfio Quarteroni the 2025 SIAM Ralph E. Kleinman Prize Awardee

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Alfio Quarteroni the 2025 SIAM Ralph E. Kleinman Prize Awardee

EurASc congratulates Alfio Quarteroni on the 2025 SIAM Ralph E. Kleinman Prize

The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) has announced the 2025 recipients of its major prizes and awards, recognizing outstanding contributions in applied mathematics, computational science, and data science. These prestigious awards will be presented at various SIAM conferences throughout 2025 and 2026, including the SIAM Conference on Computational Science and Engineering (CSE25) in Fort Worth, Texas, the Third Joint SIAM/CAIMS Annual Meetings (AN25) in Montréal, Canada, and the International Conference on Scientific Computation and Differential Equations (SciCADE) in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Among this year’s distinguished awardees, Professor Alfio Quarteroni has been honored with the 2025 Ralph E. Kleinman Prize for his exceptional contributions to mathematical modeling, scientific computing, computational fluid dynamics, and machine learning. His work has had a profound impact on a wide range of applications, bridging the gap between theoretical mathematics and practical problem-solving in engineering, science, and technology.

The Ralph E. Kleinman Prize is awarded to individuals whose research exemplifies the integration of high-level mathematics with real-world applications, making a significant impact on scientific and industrial advancements. Professor Quarteroni’s leadership in applied mathematics and dedication to innovation continue to shape the future of the field.

The award will be officially presented at the SIAM Annual Meeting 2025 (AN25) in Montréal, Canada, from July 28 – August 1, 2025.

EurASc proudly celebrates this well-deserved recognition and congratulates Professor Quarteroni on his remarkable achievements!

🔗 Read more: SIAM Announcement

#EurASc #SIAM #AppliedMathematics #ScientificComputing #ComputationalMathematics #AlfioQuarteroni #AcademicExcellence #Innovation

Susan Scott Awarded the George Szekeres Medal

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Susan Scott Awarded the George Szekeres Medal

The European Academy of Sciences (EurASc) proudly congratulates Distinguished Professor Susan Scott, Fellow of EurASc, on receiving the George Szekeres Medal, the highest honour of the Australian Mathematical Society (AustMS). This prestigious award recognises outstanding contributions to the mathematical sciences, reaffirming Professor Scott’s exceptional leadership and impact in the field.

The medal was presented by Jessica Purcell, President of AustMS, during the opening ceremony of the joint meetings of the Australian, American, and New Zealand Mathematical Societies in Auckland.

 

IMG_0936-rotated-e1733974924463-400x300
A Historic Milestone

Professor Scott’s recognition marks an important moment in Australian mathematical sciences:

  • She is only the third woman in Australia to receive this honour.
  • She is the first woman from the Australian National University (ANU) to be awarded the medal.
  • She is only the second person from ANU to ever receive this distinction.
Pioneering Contributions

A global leader in gravitational wave theory and mathematical physics, Professor Scott’s groundbreaking research has shaped the scientific community and inspired new generations of researchers. Her work continues to push the boundaries of knowledge, making significant advances in mathematical and theoretical physics.

The George Szekeres Medal, named after the renowned mathematician, is a testament to her dedication, innovation, and excellence in advancing the mathematical sciences.

EurASc is proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition of Professor Susan Scott’s remarkable career and lasting contributions to science.

🔗 Source: OzGrav News
📸 Image Credit: Australian Mathematical Society

#EurASc #ScientificExcellence #Mathematics #Physics #GravitationalWaves #SusanScott #Innovation