Two Scientists Win 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry

Henri Kagan and Kenso Soai won the 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry on Wednesday for their work on chemical reactions.

The Award

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced the prize in Stockholm. The two scientists were honored for discovering non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric organic synthesis. Kagan is connected with Universite Paris-Sud in France, while 95-year-old Soai is linked to the Tokyo University of Science.

Real-World Uses

Kagan found a new way to handle chemical reactions that creates a greater excess of one mirror image than was thought possible before. This discovery helps chemists who make medicines, flavors, scents, and new materials. Last year, the chemistry prize went to three scientists for developing molecular structures that can trap gases.

Context

The Nobel Prizes are major international awards given each year for achievements in science, literature, and peace. Stockholm hosts the announcement of the science prizes, which recognize discoveries that shape modern technology and research. This specific prize highlights organic chemistry, which is the study of carbon-based compounds.