Nobel Prize Committee Addresses Breach in Laureates’ Identity Secrecy

A trio of US-based researchers won the Nobel Chemistry Prize for their work on “quantum dots” used in TVs and lamps. Moungi Bawendi, Louis Brus, and Alexei Ekimov were recognized for their advancements in tiny particles that illuminate screens and assist surgeons in tumor removal. The announcement of the winners was unfortunately leaked hours before the official announcement, leading to an apology from the award organizers. Hans Ellegren, Secretary General of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, expressed regret for the incident and assured that it did not affect the selection of the recipients. Bawendi, one of the laureates, stated that he was unaware of the news until he received the call from the Nobel Committee. Leaks of Nobel winners are uncommon, as organizations typically take precautions to keep the names confidential until the announcements are made.