Kathmandu— Three scientists – Zhang Hong, Zhao Dongyuan, and Yuan Xinyi – have been awarded the 2026 Future Science Prize for their groundbreaking research in their respective fields, prize organizers announced Thursday in Beijing. Zhang was recognized for his work on autophagy, a cellular process of “self-eating,” while Zhao received the award for advancements in mesoporous materials used in catalysis and biomedicine. Yuan’s contributions to arithmetic geometry also earned him top honors.

Breakthrough in Cellular Biology

Zhang Hong, a researcher at the Institute of Biophysics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, was awarded the prize in life sciences for his pioneering research into autophagy. His work focuses on understanding the mechanism and function of this “self-eating” process within multicellular organisms, offering insights into fundamental biological processes.

Advancements in Materials Science

Zhao Dongyuan, a professor at Fudan University, received the physical sciences award for his innovative work with mesoporous materials. These solids, characterized by their tiny pores, are crucial components in various applications including catalysis, energy conversion and storage, and biomedicine. Zhao’s research has focused on developing methods to synthesize these materials, understand how they function, and implement them within industrial processes.

Fundamental Contributions to Arithmetic Geometry

Professor Yuan Xinyi of Peking University was honored with the mathematics and computer science prize for his fundamental contributions to the field of arithmetic geometry. His research has advanced understanding in this complex area of mathematical study.

The Future Science Prize, established in 2016 by a collective of scientists and entrepreneurs, aims to recognize original and impactful fundamental scientific research; with these awards, a total of 49 winners have been recognized.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.