Table of Contents
Celebrating brilliance: The 11th Breakthrough Prize gala shines bright
The 11th Breakthrough Prize gala, often referred to as the “Oscars of Science,” took place on April 5, 2025, at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. This prestigious event brought together a dazzling array of Hollywood stars, tech moguls, and scientific luminaries to celebrate groundbreaking achievements in science and mathematics.
With a total of six Breakthrough Prizes worth $3 million each, the night was a testament to the incredible work being done by some of the brightest minds in the world.
A star-studded affair
Among the notable attendees were FOX Corporation Chairman Emeritus Rupert Murdoch and his wife Elena Zhukova, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
The event was not just a gathering of the elite; it was a celebration of innovation and discovery. Performances by pop icons Katy Perry and Sia added a lively touch to the evening, making it a memorable occasion for everyone involved.
Recognizing scientific excellence
This year’s Breakthrough Prizes honored remarkable contributions in various fields, including life sciences, fundamental physics, and mathematics. For instance, the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences was awarded to researchers who have significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of cardiometabolic disorders and multiple sclerosis.
David R. Liu was recognized for his pioneering work in gene-editing technologies, which have transformed the landscape of genetic research.
New Horizons Prizes for emerging talent
In addition to the main prizes, the foundation also announced the recipients of the New Horizons Prizes, which are awarded to early-career physicists and mathematicians.
This year, eight talented individuals shared six prizes of $100,000 each, highlighting the importance of nurturing the next generation of scientific leaders. The Breakthrough Prize gala not only celebrates established scientists but also emphasizes the need to support emerging talent in the scientific community.
The Breakthrough Prizes were founded by a group of tech visionaries, including Zuckerberg, Sergey Brin, and Anne Wojcicki, with the goal of recognizing and rewarding outstanding contributions to humanity. The event serves as a reminder of the vital role that science plays in our society and the importance of collaboration between different sectors to drive innovation forward.
