Anthony J. Leggett

John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Professor and
Center for Advanced Study Professor of Physics

Winner of the 2002/03 Wolf Prize in Physics

The Wolf Foundation announced on January 13, 2003, that Anthony J. Leggett and Bertrand I. Halperin will share the 2002/03 Physics Prize for research on condensed forms of matter. Professor Leggett was cited for achievements in "superfluidity of the light helium isotope at very low temperatures, for his exploration of macroscopic quantum coherence, and for his contribution to the study of dissipation processes in quantum systems that cannot be ignored in practical applications."

Both scientists were recognized for their "seminal contributions to the broad range of structures and processes in condensed forms of matter. They have provided a better understanding of the macroscopic properties of materials, which rely on non-intuitive quantum effects and interactions that determine the properties of different states of matter and transitions between them. The theoretical work of both recipients has always been accompanied by experimentation and has had a significant impact on understanding numerous physical phenomena," the Wolf Jury announced.

Professor Halperin was recognized for his work on two-dimensional melting, disordered systems, and strongly interacting electrons.

The Israel-based Wolf Foundation was established by the late German-born inventor, diplomat, and philanthropist Dr. Ricardo Wolf. Beginning in 1978, five annual Wolf Prizes have been awarded to outstanding scientists and artists "for achievements in the interest of mankind and friendly relations among peoples, irrespective of nationality, race, color, religion, sex, or political view." The prizes are given every year in four out of five scientific fields in rotation—agriculture, chemistry, mathematics, medicine, and physics. In the arts, the Prize rotates among architecture, music, painting, and sculpture. To date, a total of 204 scientists and artists from 20 countries have been honored.

The 2002/03 Wolf Prizes will be conferred by the President of the State of Israel, Mr. Moshe Katsav, in a special ceremony at the Knesset in Jerusalem on Sunday, May 11, 2003.