Simon Olsson, associate professor at Chalmers University of Technology and WASP Fellow, has been awarded the first ICTP-IBM Brahmagupta Artificial Intelligence Prize. The award from the International Centre for Theoretical Physics and IBM recognizes early-career researchers for outstanding contributions to AI for science or science for AI.

Simon was selected “for his pioneering work on the use of Artificial Intelligence methods in molecular simulations, overcoming long-standing computational problems in statistical mechanics, with translational impact on drug discovery and vaccine design.”

The prize ceremony took place on 10 July at ICTP in Trieste, Italy, during the Advanced School on Foundation Models for Scientific Discovery.

Simon’s research focuses on using machine learning and generative AI to improve molecular simulations—tools used in understanding physical systems at the atomic level. His work addresses fundamental challenges while also contributing to practical advances in pharmacology.

“Receiving this first ICTP-IBM Brahmagupta AI Prize is a profound honor,” Simon says. “It signifies appreciation for my work, but more importantly, it highlights the indispensable role of my collaborators and the entire AI and molecular simulation community. I take great pride in our collective achievements, and I am equally excited by the opportunities and challenges awaiting us.”

Simon Olsson joined Chalmers in 2020 and was named Docent in Computer Science in 2024. Currently he leads the Artificial Intelligence in the Natural Sciences (AIMLeNS). He is also a member of the European Lab for Learning and Intelligent Systems (ELLIS). His recognition reflects the strong position of Sweden and WASP in the international AI research landscape.