“Acceptance Speech” Frontiers of Knowledge Award 2023 in Basic Sciences

Acceptance speech by Anne L’Huillier, winner of the 2023 Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Basic Sciences, who was honored alongside Paul Corkum and Ferenc Krausz for their pioneering research in attosecond physics, enabling the observation of electron motion in atoms and molecules using ultrashort light pulses. Their discoveries have opened up new possibilities for studying subatomic phenomena on previously inaccessible timescales.

L’Huillier explains how attosecond physics emerged from research into the interaction between intense laser fields and atoms, and how these advances make it possible to observe electron behavior using extremely short light pulses. She reflects on potential applications in chemistry, electronics and emerging technologies, and emphasizes the role of curiosity as a driving force behind fundamental research. She also expresses her hope of inspiring more women to pursue careers in scientific research.