Two material scientists from Taiwan and France received the Franco-Taiwanese Scientific Grand Prize in Paris Nov. 23 for their research on the development of materials and laser processes for the elaboration of metal oxide-based sensors in health applications, according to the National Science and Technology Council.
Zan Hsiao-wen, a professor at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University’s Department of Photonics, has been researching electronic and optoelectronic semiconductor components for more than two decades.
Olivier Soppera, head researcher of the Mulhouse Materials Science Institute at the French National Centre for Scientific Research, is an expert on micro-nano photochemical materials and photoprocess technologies.
Along with their research teams, the two have been cooperating for more than a decade to understand and optimize light-material interactions at a molecular and nano scale to prepare functional nanocomposite materials.
The award, which carries a cash prize of 38,200 euros (US$39,728), was presented by NSTC Minister Wu Tsung-tsong and the Academie des Sciences President Patrick Flandrin at the institute. Wu Chih-chung, head of Taipei Representative Office in France, was among nearly 80 officials and representatives at the ceremony.
The NSTC minister praised the award for promoting scientific breakthroughs, adding that it was made possible by both sides’ belief in freedom of thought. In response, Flandrin said the academy places great importance on the award, which has produced many outstanding research teams over the years.
Launched by the NSTC and the French academy in 1999 in collaboration with Taipei-based Academia Sinica, the award recognizes those from the two countries who have made outstanding contributions to advancing bilateral cooperation and exchanges in the realm of science. (SFC-E)
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