The Kyoto Prize / Laureates / The 2012 Kyoto Prize Laureates

Advanced Technology / Prize Field: Information Science

ImageIvan Edward Sutherland

U.S.A. / May 16, 1938
Computer Scientist
Visiting Scientist, Portland State University

“Pioneering Achievements in the Development of Computer Graphics and Interactive Interfaces”
Dr. Sutherland has been responsible for many pioneering advances and fundamental contributions to the computer graphics technology used for information presentation, as well as the interactive interfaces that allow people to utilize computers without the need for programming.

Basic Sciences / Prize Field: Life Sciences (Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Neurobiology)

ImageYoshinori Ohsumi

Japan / February 9, 1945
Molecular Cell Biologist
Professor, Tokyo Institute of Technology

“Outstanding Contribution to Elucidating the Molecular Mechanisms and Physiological Significance of Autophagy, a Cellular Adaptive System to Environment”
Dr. Ohsumi has achieved world-leading results in his genetic study of autophagy in yeast, a cellular process that degrades proteins in order to adapt to the nutritional environment and other factors. He has made groundbreaking contributions toward elucidating of the molecular mechanisms of autophagy and its physiological significance.

Arts and Philosophy / Prize Field: Thought and Ethics

ImageGayatri Chakravorty Spivak

India / February 24, 1942
Literary Critic, Educator
University Professor, Columbia University

“A Critical Theorist and Educator Speaking for the Humanities Against Intellectual Colonialism in Relation to the Globalized World”
Professor Spivak has shifted a critical theory of “deconstruction” into political and social dimensions, and applied a sharp scalpel to intellectual colonialism which is being reproduced in our heavily globalized modern world. She exemplifies what intellectuals today should be, through her theoretical work for the humanities based on comparative literature and her devotion to multifaceted educational activities.

[Back to Top]
• Email Registration   • Access
© Inamori Foundation. All Rights Reserved.