The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2026 has been awarded to three distinguished scientists for their groundbreaking research into the intricate workings of the brain, specifically through the development of optogenetics.
The laureates—Karl Deisseroth of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Stanford University, Peter Hegemann of the Humboldt University of Berlin, and Georg Nagel of the University of Würzburg—were honored “for their discoveries concerning light-gated ion channels and optogenetics.” This innovative work has revolutionized neuroscience by enabling researchers to control brain activity with light.
The Nobel Assembly at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, announced the winners on Monday. The three scientists will share a prize of 12 million Swedish kronor (approximately £901,500).
The 2026 award marks the 117th time this prestigious prize has been awarded. Out of the 235 individuals who have received the prize, including the latest recipients, only 14 have been women.
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