NEWS AND HIGHLIGHTS

Nobel Insights: Fundamental Science and the Age of AI

Fundamental science forms the bedrock of many major technological breakthroughs and societal progress. It probes the unknown, uncovers nature’s principles, and reshapes our understanding of the universe. Yet, in a world increasingly focused on fast-paced applications and incremental innovation, fundamental science often faces skepticism regarding its relevance and impact. What does the future hold for this essential domain of discovery?

For the first time, two Nobel Prize Laureates, Prof. David Gross and Prof. Arieh Warshel, will share their insights on stage together. Prof. Gross was awarded the 2004 Nobel Prize in Physics with Frank Wilczek and David Politzer for the discovery of asymptotic freedom in the theory of the strong interaction, which was an important step in the endeavor to provide a unified description of all the forces of Nature. Prof. Warshel, recipient of the 2013 Nobel Prize in Chemistry along with collaborators Martin Karplus and Michael Levitt, developed multiscale models for complex chemical systems that have transformed how scientists study molecules and enzymes in everyday life.

In conversation with Prof. Kam Tuen Law, Chair Professor of Physics at HKUST, Gross and Warshel will explore the challenges facing fundamental science today and its potential development. They will also explore how AI is reshaping scientific research and society, bringing both exciting opportunities and profound uncertainties.

This HLMA Talk will take place on Sunday,  October 26, 2025 at 10:30am at the Asia Society Hong Kong Center. Admission is free of charge but registration is required.

Seats are limited - reserve your place now! For more information and registration, please visit: https://asiasociety.org/hong-kong/events/nobel-insights-fundamental-science-and-age-ai