Grundfos Prize for young Danish scientist

Professor Sigmund, 35, from the Technical University of Denmark was selected from 20 candidates for the annual award.

Prof Sigmund’s research in topologic optimisation has delivered tangible results such as programmes which -- basing calculations on a certain carrying capacity -- are able to calculate how components in a construction can be designed. Without programmes such as these, a designer would have to speculate on the design of a component to be able to calculate its carrying capacity. The programme offers the advantage that components can be designed by experimenting in untraditional organic forms with large carrying capacities.

The Grundfos Prize was established last year to ‘stimulate, recognise and support national and international research in innovative, visionary solutions for public utility in the context of technology, natural science and social science.’ In addition to the DKK1m, the prize also includes a statuette and a diploma with the statement of the committee of judges.

At the Prize launch event last year Grundfos Group President Niels Due Jensen said that private and public research operated in less than ideal conditions in Denmark.

Today, at the award of the 2002 prize, the Group President followed on those remarks by saying that:

‘It is encouraging to see that the new government obviously agrees with that view.

‘In the newly published draft, “Growth on purpose”, it says that, among other things, “it is important for Denmark to keep up with other countries when it comes to investments in research, development and technology”. It is hoped that the government is willing to walk the talk.

It is certainly necessary,’ said Due Jensen.

The 2003 prize will be awarded to research in the social science area under the topic: Denmark in the information society – challenges for the research and educational policy.

‘Denmark has to base its future welfare on Knowledge – and without research, there will be no new knowledge’ said Due Jensen