The founders of Trianon Scientific Communication are both PhDs. Dr Audrey-Flore Ngomsik is a woman, PhD in physical and analytical chemistry. Dr Markus Fanselow is a man, PhD in chemistry.
We've often wondered about the path to a Nobel Prize.
Here's a light-hearted look at what it might take, based on some intriguing statistics:[1]
Be a man
The Nobel Prize in Physics, one of the most prestigious awards in the scientific community, has been recognizing groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the universe since 1901. Over the span of 123 years (1901-2024), the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has awarded 118 Nobel Prizes in Physics to a total of 227 laureates. Only 5 have been women (2.2%)
The Nobel Prize in Chemistry, a pinnacle of recognition in the field of chemical sciences, has been awarded annually since 1901 by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Over the course of 123 years (1901-2024), 116 Nobel Prizes in Chemistry have been given to 197 laureates. The field of chemistry has shown slightly more gender diversity compared to physics, but a significant disparity still exists. Of the 197 chemists honored with this prestigious award, 8 have been women (4%)
The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, awarded by the Nobel Assembly at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, stands as one of the most esteemed accolades in the biomedical sciences. Since its inception in 1901 through 2024, this prestigious award has been awarded 115 times, honoring a total of 229 laureates. In terms of gender representation, the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has shown more progress compared to Physics and Chemistry, of the 229 laureates, 13 have been women (5.7%).[2]
So, if you are women, medecine is your best bet to win an award!
Be of the age of 54 years old
Interestingly, the peak age for Nobel laureates is 54.
This age has seen the highest number of recipients, with 24 laureates receiving their prize at this point in their careers.
The average age of all laureates is 58.
The Nobel Prizes have also recognized exceptional achievements at both ends of the age spectrum.
The youngest Nobel laureate in history is Lawrence Bragg, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1915 at the remarkably young age of 25.
Bragg shared this honor with his father, William Bragg, for their pioneering work in X-ray crystallography, specifically for their contributions to the analysis of crystal structures using X-rays. This father-son duo not only set a record for the youngest laureate but also highlighted the potential for collaborative, intergenerational research in advancing scientific knowledge.
On the opposite end of the age spectrum, the oldest Nobel laureate to date is John B. Goodenough, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2019 at the age of 97. Goodenough shared this prize with Akira Yoshino and Stankey Whittingham, for their collective work in developing lithium-ion batteries, a technology that has revolutionized portable electronics and paved the way for a fossil fuel-free society.
Goodenough's late-career recognition underscores that scientific innovation and impactful research can continue well into one's later years, challenging perceptions about age and scientific productivity.
To win a Nobel prize, better be alive
Nobel Prizes are not given, posthumously.
Be patient
The average wait time is about two decades after groundbreaking work.
So, on average, you should make a start on these projects by your 40s.
Choose your field wisely
Five scientific fields win the most Nobel Prizes: The fields of particle physics, atomic physics, cell biology, neuroscience, and molecular chemistry collectively accounted for more than half (52.4%) of all Nobel Prizes awarded in the two-decade timeframe, even though they account for just 10% of all papers published.[3]
Be prepared to share the price
Winners in physiology or medicine share the prize most often, with 65% of prizes awarded to two or three laureates.
In chemistry, 55% of the prizes have been awarded to one laureate.
Location matters
North America stands out as the prime location for potential Nobel laureates, offering the highest probability of receiving this prestigious award. They count almost 54% of all Nobel prizes.
Those born and continuing their careers in North America appear to have the best odds of achieving Nobel recognition.
Europe follows closely behind North America in terms of Nobel Prize representation.
The disparity becomes more pronounced when considering low- and lower-middle-income countries. Only ten Nobel laureates originate from these regions.
Moreover, it's noteworthy that the majority of them had relocated to either North America or Europe by the time they received their Nobel Prizes.
It is all about connections
Working in the lab of a scientist who has already received a Nobel Prize or will soon, or collaborating with someone whose mentors have received one, can significantly increase your chances of winning one yourself.
A striking 702 out of 736 Nobel laureates in science and economics share ties within a vast academic network of former laureates. This network illustrates that almost all laureates have some form of connection, often tracing back to a common academic ancestor.
Notably, 696 laureates across disciplines such as physics, chemistry, medicine, and economics are part of a single academic family tree. Among these, 668 can trace their lineage to Emmanuel Stupanus, a professor from the 17th century.
Additionally, Craig Mello, who received the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2006, boasts an impressive 51 Nobel-winning ancestors.[4]
This clustering of laureates suggests that mentorship and academic lineage play crucial roles in fostering future Nobel winners.
Interestingly, only 32 laureates exist outside this expansive academic family, highlighting the rarity of such isolation in this elite group.
Link with Corporate Social Sustainability
Inspired by these statistics, we’ve identified key insights that also apply to corporate social responsibility initiatives:
The Right Timing and Luck
Success can hinge on being in the right place at the right time. In CSR, aligning your initiatives with current social trends can enhance their impact.
Patience is Key
Groundbreaking work, whether in science or CSR, often takes years to bear fruit. Commitment to long-term goals is essential for sustainable success.
Leverage Connections
Building relationships within your industry can open doors. Collaborating with established CSR leaders or organizations can amplify your efforts and credibility.
Diversity Matters
While traditional narratives may suggest a narrow path to success, embracing diverse perspectives can lead to innovative solutions and broader impacts in CSR.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re aiming for a Nobel Prize, it seems the recipe for success is a blend of luck, timing, and perhaps a dash of nepotism—just make sure to be a man, preferably around 54 years old, and alive. If you happen to be a woman, well, you might want to consider a career in medicine, where the odds are slightly more favorable (though still not great).
And remember, patience is key; groundbreaking work might take two decades to pay off. So, if you’re starting your research in your 40s, you may want to invest in a good pair of orthopedic shoes for all that waiting.
Lastly, don’t forget the power of connections—working under a Nobel laureate or their protégés could significantly boost your chances. After all, in the world of science, it’s not just about what you know; it’s about who you know. So gear up for an academic family reunion that could rival Thanksgiving dinner—just make sure to bring along your best research ideas and a healthy sense of humor!
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