Multiple distinguished scholars and researchers have been honoured in this year’s Balzan Prize announcement, reflecting exceptional contributions in both the humanities and natural sciences. The International Balzan Foundation recognises their significant achievements with a substantial award sum of 750,000 Swiss francs (equivalent to approximately 800,000 euros or $890,000), half of which is mandated to fund young researchers.
One winner is 59-year-old Omar Yaghi from the University of California, Berkeley. Yaghi received recognition for his pioneering research into the development of nonporous materials that play a crucial role in environmental sustainability efforts such as carbon capture, hydrogen storage, and extracting water from desert air.
The Balzan Foundation acknowledged these materials’ significant impact on global sustainability and environmental challenges.
The award states that he has been awarded the prestigious prize “for groundbreaking contributions to the discovery and development of nanoporous framework materials, and advancing their applications in carbon capture, hydrogen storage, and water harvesting from desert air.” Yaghi has developed foundational design principles and innovative synthetic methods, creating two extensive classes of nanoporous materials: metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs). These pioneering materials are now at the forefront of global efforts to tackle critical sustainability and environmental challenges facing our planet.
Omar M. Yaghi, awarded a 2024 Balzan Prize for Nanoporous Materials for Environmental Applications
Michael N. Hall, a molecular biologist of dual American-Swiss nationality and based at the University of Basel’s Biozentrum, has been honoured for his advancements in the field of aging. At age 71, Hall’s research has elucidated the role of two proteins central to the molecular mechanism whereby dietary restriction can extend a healthy lifespan.
The American science historian Lorraine Daston, who has created in-depth explorations into the history and philosophy of science, is also among this year’s laureates. Daston, aged 73, serves as the director emerita at the Max Planck Institute for the History of Science in Berlin. Her extensive body of work is recognised for pioneering new pathways in understanding the history and epistemology of science.
The final recipient is Professor John Braithwaite from the Australian National University. He has been celebrated for his ground-breaking work in restorative justice. At 73 years old, Braithwaite has been influential in promoting and implementing methods focused on the rehabilitation of offenders through the process of reconciliation with victims and the broader community. He leads the Peacebuilding Compared project and is the founder of the School of Regulation and Global Governance at his university.
Looking ahead, the Balzan Foundation has announced the categories for the 2025 awards, which will encompass contemporary art history, classical studies, as well as the scientific study of atoms, and gene and cell-modified therapy.
This year’s Balzan Prize awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 21 in Rome.
