The objective of this Science Prize is to promote and recognise the novel work of young scientists working in the fields of low temperatures and/or high magnetic fields in Europe. Quantum Design Oxford is aware that there is a critical and often difficult stage for many between completing their PhD and gaining a permanent research position. The company therefore would like to help individuals who are producing innovative work by offering assistance both financially and through promotion of their research work.
Quantum Design Oxford, the world leader in the supply of superconducting magnets and low temperature cryogenic systems, has been proudly presenting The Nicholas Kurti (NK) Science Prize for Europe for 20 years. This prize aims to promote and recognise the novel work of young scientists working in low temperatures and/or high magnetic fields in Europe. We are aware that the critical stage between completing a PhD and gaining a permanent research position can be difficult for many young scientists. Through The NK Science Prize, we seek to help individuals who are already producing innovative work at this stage in their careers, both by financially contributing to their research and promoting it through this prestigious award.
The European prize for physics is named after Professor Nicholas Kurti (1908-1998). Professor Kurti is known for his distinguished work in ultra-low temperature physics at the Clarendon Laboratory, Oxford University. In fact, this location earned the name "the coldest spot on earth" as a consequence of the ground-breaking research conducted there. Using the nuclear demagnetisation of copper, Professor Kurti was able to create temperatures close to a millionth of a degree above absolute zero.
There is a strong connection between Quantum Design Oxford and Professor Kurti. Sir Martin Wood, the founder of Oxford Instruments, the former parent company of what is now Quantum Design Oxford, held the Senior Research Officer position at the Clarendon Laboratory at that time with responsibility for the engineering facility of the high magnetic field section of the laboratory which was directed by Nicholas Kurti. When Professor Kurti retired, he decided to apply his low temperature physics knowledge to the kitchen. He created a new science, Molecular Gastronomy, the application of scientific principles to the understanding and improvement of small scale food preparation. Chefs, scientists and food writers around the world have developed the subject since his death in 1998.
Quantum Design Oxford would like to thank Mrs Giana Kurti for her agreement to name the prize after her late husband.
Copyright © 2025 Quantum Design Oxford
