Breakthrough Prize

Knowledge is the greatest wealth of mankind. It defines our essence and will shape our future.

The knowledge system is the sum of centuries. However, an idea can greatly expand it. Einstein reimagined time and space. Darwin attributed the chaos of life to a single idea. Turing made clear the meaning of thinking.

Great scientists have enriched us all. They make our lives easy and enjoyable, but they also show us things beyond our horizons.

The world revealed by science goes far beyond everyday life, from subatoms and cells to stars and the Milky Way. We are increasingly able to think at these levels and track the connections between them. And, with our efforts, we are solving real major problems. Problems like this:

Why is there nothing, not what?

What constitutes the universe?

How did life begin?

What do you think?

How much?

The discipline that raises the biggest problem and finds the most profound explanation is the basic science. The Breakthrough Awards recognize outstanding achievements in basic physics, life sciences and mathematics, primarily recent achievements. The award was sponsored by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Pony Ma, Yuri and Julia Milner and Anne Wojcicki. Previous winners' committees have selected winners among candidates nominated by online and public processes.

The winners will each receive a $3 million prize. They attended the TV Awards Ceremony to celebrate their achievements and inspire the next generation of scientists. As part of the ceremony schedule, they also participated in lectures and discussion plans. Those who continue to discover new discoveries are still eligible for future breakthrough awards.