Ellen Moons Becomes First Woman to Lead Swedish Academy Overseeing Nobel Prizes

For the first time in its extensive history, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, the body responsible for awarding the Nobel Prizes in Physics, Chemistry, and Economic Sciences, will be led by a woman. Ellen Moons, originally from Belgium and a professor of physics at Karlstad University, has assumed the role of Secretary General of the Academy in Stockholm. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the institution, which has not had a woman in this leadership position since its establishment in 1739.

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences is one of the four main organizations tasked with the annual selection and announcement of Nobel laureates. The Academy specifically oversees the Nobel Prizes in Physics, Chemistry, and Economics. Other Nobel honors, such as the Peace Prize and the Literature Prize, are managed by different institutions, with the Peace Prize uniquely awarded in Oslo, Norway.

Ellen Moons succeeds Hans Ellegren, taking over after a selection process by the Academy's assembly. With over 25 years of residence in Sweden and a long-standing academic career, Moons has been a key figure in the scientific community. She joined the Nobel Committee for Physics in 2022, contributing to the selection of past laureates. As Secretary General, she now takes on a highly visible role, as she will be responsible for announcing the winners of the Nobel Prizes in Physics, Chemistry, and Economics each October.

The duties of the Secretary General also extend to the management of the Academy's activities and administration. While the Academy does have a president, the Secretary General is typically the public face of the organization, especially during the Nobel season when global attention is focused on the announcements in Stockholm. This role involves overseeing the internal operations of the Academy, facilitating the work of the Nobel Committees, and upholding the integrity and reputation of the Nobel selection process.

Moons' background in physics and her experience within the Swedish academic sphere position her strongly to lead the Academy. Her academic achievements and familiarity with the Nobel process are expected to provide continuity and uphold the standards of excellence associated with the institution.

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, established in the 18th century, is recognized worldwide for its role in advancing scientific knowledge and honoring outstanding contributions through the Nobel Prizes. The selection of a woman for the Secretary General role reflects ongoing developments within the scientific community toward greater inclusion and representation.

In addition to the Academy's responsibilities, the Nobel Assembly at the Karolinska Institute selects the recipient of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, while the Swedish Academy is responsible for the Nobel Prize in Literature. The Nobel Peace Prize, distinct in its location and administration, is awarded by the Norwegian Nobel Committee in Oslo.

Ellen Moons' appointment as Secretary General is seen as an important step in the Academy's evolution, marking a new chapter as it continues its longstanding tradition of recognizing scientific achievement on the world stage.