Open-access publisher MDPI has announced Ursula Röthlisberger, professor of computational chemistry and biochemistry at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), as the recipient of the 2026 Michele Parrinello Award.
Announced in March this year, the award honours senior academics who have made outstanding contributions to computational physical sciences, encompassing physics, chemistry and materials science, with a particular emphasis on pioneering contributions to foundational science.
The award was established by MDPI to commemorate the scientific legacy of professor Michele Parrinello, whose groundbreaking work transformed atomistic simulation and molecular dynamics. In addition to a commemorative medal and certificate, the winner receives a prize of €50,000 in recognition of their achievements.
Professor Röthlisberger was selected by an award evaluation committee of internationally recognised experts, chaired by professor Xin-Gao Gong of Fudan University, China, for her pioneering contributions to computational chemistry and molecular simulation.
This includes her work in ab initio molecular dynamics and quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) multiscale simulation methods. She has provided rigorous computational frameworks for investigating complex molecular processes across different scientific fields, creating important tools for studying molecular processes and guiding scientific discovery.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this award, which bears the name of one of my long-time mentors and most inspiring role models,” said professor Röthlisberger. “To me, this distinction represents far more than personal recognition – it is a wonderful affirmation of the scientific contributions that I have been privileged to make, together with outstanding students, postdoctoral researchers, collaborators and colleagues, throughout my career.”
A major focus of professor Röthlisberger’s recent research involves the computational design and understanding of next-generation photovoltaic materials. Through close collaboration with experimental scientists worldwide, she has revealed the fundamental mechanisms governing dye-sensitised and perovskite solar cells, helping to guide the development of more efficient, stable and sustainable solar-energy technologies.
“Her innovative research has significantly advanced the predictive modelling of complex chemical and biological systems, and has created lasting impact across multiple scientific disciplines,” said professor Gong. “Through her outstanding scientific achievements, dedication to education and leadership in the international research community, she has played a vital role in shaping the development of modern computational science.”
Professor Röthlisberger’s scientific achievements have earned her international esteem throughout her career. She is an elected fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), a member of the International Academy of Quantum Molecular Science, and a recipient of the Dirac Medal from the World Association of Theoretical and Computational Chemists (WATOC) and the Ruzicka Prize.
The Michele Parrinello Award forms part of MDPI’s commitment to recognising scientific excellence and supporting outstanding researchers whose work advances fundamental knowledge and addresses global scientific challenges. Alongside the Michele Parrinello Award, MDPI also offers the World Sustainability Award, the Emerging Sustainability Leader Award and the Tu Youyou Award, in addition to its wider awards programme.
The inaugural award ceremony will be held on 7 November 2026 at the Southern University of Science and Technology in Shenzhen, China, as part of the 2026 MDPI Materials Science Conference. Further updates will be made available on the official award website.
Nominations for the next edition of the Michele Parrinello Award are expected to open in 2027.
