Ashoke Sen wins Oskar Klein Medal in a first for India

Ashoke Sen has become the first Indian physicist to receive the Oskar Klein Medal, recognising research that has helped shape modern string theory. The 2026 honour is awarded by Stockholm University and the Nobel Committee for Physics of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.

Based at the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences in Bengaluru, Sen has helped reveal connections between different versions of string theory, supporting the idea that they belong to one underlying theory. His work has also advanced the theoretical understanding of black holes. String theory seeks to unite gravity with quantum mechanics, the physics that describes nature at its smallest scales.

Sen explored both the promise and the limitations of this approach in his memorial lecture at Stockholm University on 22 October. He described how string theory can address puzzles involving black holes, while acknowledging that the many possibilities it allows have so far prevented a definite, testable prediction. The recognition honours theoretical advances, rather than experimental confirmation of the framework.

Established in 1988, the medal has previously recognised scientists including Stephen Hawking, Peter Higgs and Steven Weinberg. ICTS director Rajesh Gopakumar said honours such as Sen’s demonstrate a strong foundation for physics in India, and called for greater support for research in fields where the country is doing well.