I propose the establishment of a Nobel Prize in Engineering Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, and to suggest that the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA) take a leading role in advocating for and administering this new prize. Given IVA’s deep expertise and longstanding authority in the engineering sciences, I believe it would be the perfect institution to oversee such an award, providing well-deserved recognition to engineers whose innovations have had a profound impact on society.

Why a Nobel Prize in Engineering Sciences?

The Nobel Prizes are among the most prestigious honors in the world, recognizing individuals whose work has conferred "the greatest benefit to humankind." However, engineering—a discipline that is fundamental to technological progress and societal advancement—does not have its own dedicated Nobel Prize. Engineering, as an interdisciplinary field, is responsible for translating scientific discoveries into real-world solutions, and engineers are behind many of the breakthroughs that shape modern life.

With the recent decision to award Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry to scientists working on artificial intelligence (AI)—a field that overlaps with computer science and engineering—it has become increasingly clear that new categories may be needed to accommodate the evolving nature of research. These awards have sparked discussions about how discoveries that don’t fit squarely into traditional categories are recognized, suggesting the need for a distinct prize that honors engineering innovation.

The Precedent: The Economics Nobel Prize

As you know, Alfred Nobel’s 1895 will did not include engineering, but there is a precedent for establishing new prizes under the Nobel Foundation’s umbrella. In 1969, the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel was created, recognizing the critical role of economics in shaping global development. Today, I believe it is time to similarly honor engineering sciences, given their essential contributions to humanity.

IVA’s Role and Leadership

As Sweden’s national academy of engineering, IVA is uniquely positioned to advocate for this prize and manage its selection process. Since the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences already oversees the Nobel Prizes in Physics, Chemistry, and Economics, it would be fitting for IVA to take responsibility for the Nobel Prize in Engineering Sciences. IVA’s deep involvement in the global engineering community and its commitment to excellence would ensure that the prize is awarded with the same rigor and prestige as the traditional Nobel Prizes.

Proposed Statutes for the Prize

To guide the establishment of the Nobel Prize in Engineering Sciences, I have drafted a set of proposed statutes, modeled after those for the Economics Nobel Prize:

Statutes for the Prize in Engineering Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel
Introduction
The Prize in Engineering Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel shall recognize outstanding contributions to the field of engineering sciences, conferring recognition on individuals, groups or organizations whose work has greatly benefited humanity.
Award Procedure
The process for nominating, evaluating, and awarding the Prize shall follow the procedures established for other Nobel Prizes, with a Prize Committee appointed by IVA to oversee the selection process.
Financial Management
The Nobel Foundation shall manage the financial resources necessary for the prize, ensuring its sustainability.
Eligibility and Composition of the Prize Committee
The Prize Committee shall consist of five members elected by IVA, with nominations accepted from IVA members, previous laureates, and recognized global experts in engineering.
Nomination and Voting Procedures
Eligible nominators will be invited to submit proposals, with the final decision on the prize made by IVA, ensuring rigorous evaluation.
These statutes are designed to facilitate the seamless integration of a Nobel Prize in Engineering Sciences into the Nobel framework while maintaining the integrity and prestige associated with the Nobel name.

A New Venue for Recognition

The creation of this prize would provide a dedicated venue for honoring breakthroughs in areas like mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, bioengineering, chemical and materials engineering, and computer engineering. It would allow engineers to receive recognition without encroaching on existing Nobel categories, while also highlighting the vital role of engineering in addressing global challenges—from sustainable energy solutions to healthcare innovations and beyond.