Ignacio Cirac receives the IOP’s Isaac Newton Medal

13 October 2026

The Institute of Physics (IOP) has awarded the 2026 Isaac Newton Medal and Lecture to Ignacio J. Cirac, co-spokesperson of MCQST and Director at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ). The medal is given annually for world-leading contributions to physics and t is the most prestigious award of the IOP, one of the largest physical societies in the world.

The citation recognizes Cirac “for pioneering contributions that founded modern quantum information science, uniting profound theoretical insight, experimental vision, and exceptional scientific leadership shaping quantum physics and technology worldwide.”

Professor Cirac is widely recognised as one of the world's foremost theoretical physicists and has played a defining role in establishing the modern field of quantum information science. His pioneering work has transformed understanding of quantum computing, quantum simulation and quantum communications, providing many of the theoretical foundations on which today's rapidly developing quantum technologies are built.

Professor Cirac said:

"I feel deeply honoured to receive this award, which recognizes the work I have had the opportunity to carry out with so many students and collaborators throughout my career. I am immensely grateful to all of them for the privilege of having worked together and for everything we have accomplished along the way."

Congratulating this year’s Award winners, Paul Howarth, IOP President, said:

“Professor Cirac’s pioneering work has helped shape modern quantum information science, providing crucial theoretical foundations for advances in quantum computing, simulation and communications. His achievements demonstrate how fundamental physics can expand our understanding of the world while opening up new possibilities for technology. His influence can be seen not only in the development of quantum science, but in the generation of researchers who have followed.
Professor Cirac is a hugely deserving recipient of the Isaac Newton Medal. On behalf of the Institute of Physics, I offer him my warmest congratulations on this recognition of his outstanding contribution to physics.”

The IOP honors a wide range of physicists, with awards going to inspirational teachers, innovative businesses and talented apprentices, alongside researchers and science communicators. The details of winners can be found on the IOP website.
A special event for the winners, including a lecture by Ignacio Cirac will take place later in the year.