How and why the Nobel Prize is awarded: Sten Grillner shares insights from neuroscience
A much-appreciated seminar at Digital Futures hub on 8 October brought together a large audience eager to learn more about how one of the world’s most prestigious scientific awards is decided. Professor Sten Grillner from Karolinska Institutet and the Nobel Institute for Neurophysiology offered a fascinating insight into the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, drawing on his extensive experience of the Nobel selection process and his pioneering research in neuroscience.
During the seminar, Grillner explained how Nobel laureates are identified and selected, the criteria that guide the Nobel Assembly’s decisions, and what makes a scientific discovery worthy of recognition at the highest level. His presentation was enriched with examples from neuroscience, illustrating how fundamental research can deepen our understanding of the brain and the mechanisms underlying human and animal behaviour.
With his unique perspective as a former member, Deputy Chair and Chair of the Nobel Committee and Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet, Grillner offered the audience a rare glimpse into the work behind the award and the scientific achievements it celebrates.
The seminar – hosted by Ilaria Carannante and Martina Scolamiero – was part of Nobel Calling Stockholm, an annual programme that brings science and the Nobel Prize closer to the public.
Watch the seminar on YouTube
For those who missed the event, or would like to revisit the presentation, the seminar was recorded and is available to watch on the Digital Futures YouTube channel.
Watch the seminar on Digital Futures YouTube
