News Mustafa(pbuh) Prize

Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize: Honoring the Science Ambassadors of the Islamic World and the Innovators Shaping the Future

2025/08/23

Tehran - ISNA - The Mustafa^(pbuh)  Prize, recognized as one of the most prestigious scientific awards in the Islamic world, stands as a symbol of pride and scientific excellence across Islamic countries. Presented every two years, it honors scientists and researchers who have made outstanding contributions in various fields of science and technology and played a pivotal role in advancing the frontiers of knowledge. Named in tribute to the Prophet of Islam, who was a messenger of knowledge, virtue, and peace, the Prize aims to create a platform for scientific collaboration among leading minds in the Islamic world and beyond.

The Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize is not just a recognition of scientific achievement; it is a bridge connecting hearts and minds—a bridge that transcends geographical boundaries and brings scientists together around the shared goal of progress and sustainable development. By highlighting exemplary role models, the Prize inspires future generations to build a brighter future for humanity relying on their knowledge, hopes, and efforts.

The Mustafa^(pbuh) Science and Technology Foundation launched the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in 2012 with a vision of promoting peace and human well-being. The Foundation’s mission is to advance science and technology across the Islamic world. To achieve this, it focuses on recognizing and honoring outstanding scientists, fostering collaboration among researchers, and enhancing cooperation and synergy between Islamic countries in the fields of science and technology, with a special emphasis on advanced technologies.

The Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize was established as a global symbol of scientific excellence, honoring outstanding scientists and fostering collaboration and the advancement of science worldwide. The prize is awarded to innovative works at the frontiers of knowledge which have the potential to improve human life and are conducted by distinguished individuals in science and technology. In addition to receiving the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize medal and certificate, laureates are honored with a $500,000 award—funded by philanthropists and through scientific endowments—during a grand ceremony attended by scholars and intellectuals from around the world. Twenty percent of the cash prize is allocated for providing the laureates with:

• research grants to present to researchers in Islamic countries
• research sabbatical funding to present to researchers in Islamic countries
• travel grants to attend the MSTF events or events held in Islamic countries
• grants to publish co-written articles with researchers from Islamic countries
• funding for carrying out joint projects in Islamic countries
• funding for establishing joint scientific institutions in Islamic countries
• funding for the admission of graduate students from Islamic countries
• funding to join and engage with scientific organizations in Islamic countries

The Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize is awarded based on the following criteria:

• Outstanding qualities of the work: Judges look for innovation in the scientific approach, the pioneering nature of the contribution, and its lasting impact. Additionally, the work should have tangible applications or demonstrably influence the world of science. Participants are expected to provide sufficient and verifiable evidence to support these qualities.
• Scope of impact: The scientific work should contribute to expanding the frontiers of knowledge and have a significant scientific influence at the global or regional level. It should either be published as a scientific theory in reputable scientific outlets or have the potential to be translated into economic projects and create wealth. Moreover, the work should have a tangible impact on culture, society, public health, the environment, and the public well-being, addressing scientific needs or contributing to the resolution of social challenges.
• Qualities of the nominee: Candidates for the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize must have a good reputation and an outstanding academic track record in their field of expertise. Such credentials may be demonstrated through published works and articles in reputable scientific journals, registered innovations or patents, or contributions to the development of new technologies. Having a broad and scientific mindset is also a key quality sought in the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize laureates.

The 2015 Laureates

A promising approach for gas storage

Omar Yaghi, Jordanian researcher and laureate of the 2015 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Nanoscience and Technology for his work on “Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs).”

At the 2015 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize ceremony, Omar Yaghi, a distinguished Jordanian-American scientist, was honored with the award in recognition of his groundbreaking achievements in designing and synthesizing novel classes of chemical compounds. His pioneering research led to the invention and development of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), and covalent organic frameworks (COFs)—materials created by linking organic and inorganic units through strong bonds into crystalline structures.

These breakthroughs have found wide-ranging applications in the storage of gases such as hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide; in hydrocarbon separation, catalysis, and even in emerging electronic technologies. Today, they are used in more than a thousand academic and industrial laboratories worldwide. Yaghi’s inventions have turned the long-held dream of chemists—to design and build materials with tailored structures—into reality, inspiring a new generation of young researchers across the globe.

Born in 1966 in Amman, Jordan, Yaghi completed his higher education at New York University and the University of Illinois. He went on to teach and conduct research at leading American universities, including Harvard, Arizona, Michigan, UCLA, and Berkeley. Over the course of his career, he has received numerous international awards, such as the Sacconi Medal (2004), the US Department of Energy Hydrogen Program Award (2007), the ACS Award in the Chemistry of Materials (2009), and the King Faisal Prize (2015). With more than 200 published scientific papers, he is ranked among the world’s top five scientists.

Smart drug delivery

Jackie Yi-Ru Ying, Singaporean researcher and laureate of the 2015 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Bionanotechnology for “the synthesis of advanced nanostructured materials and systems, including the development of polymeric nanoparticles in stimuli-responsive systems for smart drug delivery.”

Ying’s pioneering research—including the development of nanoparticles, nanocomposites, and nanoporous materials—has opened new horizons in nanostructured materials. Through her innovative “nanotechnology toolbox,” she has developed technologies with wide-ranging applications in drug development, cell and tissue engineering, biosensors, green chemistry, and energy. To date, she has published over 340 scientific papers and holds over 150 patents (granted or pending), many of which have been successfully commercialized.

One of her most remarkable achievements is the development of polymeric nanoparticles that are capable of auto-regulating the release of insulin. Ying’s invention eliminates the need for glucose monitoring devices and enables non-injection routes of insulin delivery for diabetic patients. Commercialized by SmartCells, this technology was acquired by Merck in 2010 with a $500 million investment allocated for further clinical development.

Born in 1966 in Taipei and raised in Singapore and New York, Ying received her academic degrees from The Cooper Union and Princeton University. She has served as a faculty member at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and as the founding Executive Director of the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (IBN) in Singapore. She has earned numerous international awards, including the Ross C. Purdy Award, the Packard Fellowship, ACS's Solid-State Chemistry Award, and the Brunei Crown Prince Grand Prize.

Recognized as one of the world’s top 100 engineers, she was listed among the 500 most influential Muslims from 2012 to 2015 and was named Singapore’s Woman of the Year in 2014. Ying also serves as the Editor-in-Chief of Nano Today, a journal with an impact factor of 15,000, and plays a key role in guiding and inspiring the next generation of researchers.

The 2017 Laureates

Sami Erol Gelenbe, a distinguished Turkish computer scientist, electronic engineer, and applied mathematician and laureate of the 2017 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Information and Communication Science and Technology.

He is a professor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Imperial College London, and has made significant contributions to the development of queueing network theory and its advanced applications in ICT.

After graduating from Ankara University and Middle East Technical University and receiving several research awards, Gelenbe earned his master’s and Ph.D. degrees from the Polytechnic Institute of New York. His doctoral dissertation focused on probabilistic automata with structural restrictions. At INRIA and the University of Paris-Sud, he established a research team that developed models and software for the analysis of queueing networks. His inventions include diffusion approximations for computer performance, optimization of MAC protocols, and increasing the reliability of database systems.

One of Gelenbe’s major achievements is the design of G-Networks (also known as Gelenbe Networks)—mathematical models that evaluate the performance of ICT systems that incorporate important control functions, and are used for removing overload and moving work dynamically among servers. He also introduced a new spiked stochastic neural network model known as the Random Neural Network, developed its mathematical solution and learning algorithms. He has also introduced a novel model of the Stochastic Spiking Neural Network (often referred to as the Random Neural Network), whose learning algorithms have been employed in both engineering and biological applications.

Gelenbe and his colleagues at LMT made a major invention that made voice transmission over a packet network router possible. This technology which is the basis of modern communication tools such as Skype was patented in 1979 and awarded in 1982.

Gelenbe has also founded the ISCIS (International Symposium on Computer and Information Sciences) series of conferences that, since 1986, are held annually, bringing together Turkish computer scientists with their international counterparts. He is currently working on the interaction between Energy Consumption and Quality of Service in ICT, and on improving the security of Networks and the Cloud. He has mentored over 76 PhD students, and numerous post-doctoral fellows.

Gelenbe’s introduction of G-Networks and the related software, which were made freely available to universities and research centers worldwide, has now become an industry standard in ICT and telecommunications—highlighting his unparalleled impact on the advancement of information science and technology.

Developing raptor codes

Mohammad Amin Shokrollahi, full professor at the Swiss Federal Technology Institute of Lausanne (EPFL) in the fields of algorithms and algorithmic mathematics and laureate of the 2017 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize for his invention of Raptor codes and their lasting impact on communications and data networks.

Born in Iran in 1964, Shokrollahi received his M.Sc. in Mathematics at the University of Karlsruhe and his Ph.D degree at the University of Bonn, Germany. His Ph.D dissertation, entitled ”Contributions to coding and complexity theory via algebraic function fields,” reflected his focus on advancing error correction codes.

Shokrollahi is the co-inventor of Tornado codes and the inventor of Raptor Codes. The world's most advanced forward error correction (FEC) code for data networks, Raptor codes invented by Shokrollahi in 2001, provides protection against packet loss by sending additional repair data used to reconstruct "erased" or "lost" data. They are used in applications such as internet TV streaming, mobile communications, and data distribution to rural areas. This technology is marketed under the brand RaptorQ by Qualcomm and is being used by millions of products worldwide.

For his work on the design and development of Raptor and Fountain Codes, he was awarded the 2007 IEEE Eric E. Sumner Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to Communications, and the 2012 Hamming Medal, which is among the most prestigious awards of the IEEE. Shokrollahi founded the First Summer School on Theoretical Aspects of Computer Science in Tehran and held workshops on Raptor codes for mobile communications at the University of Tehran. He has also mentored numerous Ph.D. students and postdoctoral fellows from Islamic countries.

Raptor codes, invented by Shokrollahi in 2001, increase the reliability of data networks by transforming the original message into a longer one and using minimal error-correction data. This innovation has become a global standard in telecommunications and data transmission.

The 2019 Laureates

Personalized immunotherapy: new battle against cancer

Ugur Sahin, a Turkish researcher in biomedical and medical science and a laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize for the “Development and Clinical Testing of mRNA-based Cancer Vaccines that are tailored to the Mutation Profile of a Cancer Patient.” Sahin, a physician-scientist and CEO of the biotechnology company BioNTech, has pioneered a new approach in cancer treatment through the development of personalized messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. These vaccines train the patient’s immune cells to recognize and destroy the mutated proteins specific to their own cancer cells.

Sahin’s research, whose human trial results were published in Nature, has shown that this approach can halt tumor progression and bring immunotherapy to a personalized level. Sahin emphasizes that success in the fight against cancer requires a combination of interdisciplinary research, advanced technologies, and a determined mindset—qualities pursued by Germany’s TRON Institute and BioNTech, with a focus on translating medical science into practical applications.

Bio-printing: the future of regenerative medicine

Ali Khademhosseini, a professor of bioengineering and a laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh)  Prize in Life and Medical Science and Technology for “Nano and Micro fabricated Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications.”

Researchers are using bioprinting to develop human tissues and organs that can replace damaged ones or be used for drug testing. This technology, which relies on “bio-inks containing cells and active materials,” enables the creation of complex structures such as skin, bone, lungs, heart, and kidneys.

Khademhosseini states that the current goal is the laboratory use of these tissues to personalize treatments and reduce ineffective medications. However, a future in which custom tissues and organs are printed for each patient is not out of reach. These advancements demonstrate that bioprinting is not merely the material of science fiction but represents a “new frontier in regenerative medicine” and personalized healthcare.

Mysterious lightning between the Earth and space

Umran Inan, Turkish scientist and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Ionospheric and Atmospheric Physics for “understanding of whistler-mode wave-particle interaction in near-Earth space, and the electrodynamic coupling between lightning discharges and the upper atmosphere.”

Scientists have documented upper-atmosphere lightning, an astonishing and little-known phenomenon occurring 50 to 100 kilometers above thunderclouds. These luminous events—which include red sprites, elves, blue jets, and gamma-ray bursts—differ from conventional lightning, producing unusual shapes and colors.

These phenomena not only open new horizons in physics and aerospace research but can also affect the performance of satellites, GPS systems, and even the ozone layer. Despite recent advances, the precise mechanisms that trigger these lightning events and the reasons behind the formation of these mysterious “sprites” remain one of the great enigmas between Earth and space.

Hossein Baharvand: a pioneer of cell-therapy and regenerative medicine in Iran

Hossein Baharvand, an Iranian researcher in stem cell biology and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh)  Prize in Stem Cell Biology for “Parkinson's treatment and Eye AMD with Stem Cell.” Baharvand, a developmental biologist at Royan Institute, has pioneered a new path in regenerative medicine and cell therapy in Iran by producing human induced pluripotent stem cells. He and his team have derived dopaminergic progenitor cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells from human pluripotent stem cells and tested them in animal models of Parkinson’s disease and AMD. Their work has demonstrated improved neurological and visual function without the risk of uncontrolled cell growth.

Baharvand has published over 350 scientific papers and received numerous national and international awards, including the 2019 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize. His efforts have paved the way for the development of stem cell therapies for age-related diseases, raising new hopes for healthier and longer lives.

Iran’s Metas-Chip: Rapid Cancer Metastasis Detection

Mohammad Abdolahad, an Iranian researcher in Nano electronics and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Nano electronic Science and Technology for “Translating the Behavior of Healthy and Cancerous Cells into the Electronic Field” — opening new pathways for cancer diagnosis and treatment.

His team at the University of Tehran developed the Metas-Chip biosensor, which was able to detect breast cancer metastasis in less than five hours across more than 70 patients, even identifying invasive cells that conventional pathology methods had missed.

This microelectronic biosensor technology is the result of a collaborative effort between engineers, biologists, and biotechnologists, promising fast, non-invasive, and accurate early detection of cancer. Recent advances have brought the chip to the brink of large-scale clinical trials and commercialization.

The 2021 Laureates

Cumrun Vafa and string theory: looking for the theory of everything

Cumrun Vafa, Iranian physicist, pioneer in string theory, laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh)  Prize in Theoretical Physics for “F-theory.”

Vafa works toward realizing Einstein’s dream of a theory of everything, aiming to reconcile the apparent contradictions between general relativity and quantum mechanics.

Through the development of F-theory and the ‘Swampland’ concept, Vafa has shown how extra dimensions and geometric features in string theory can explain our universe, doing away with certain inconsistent physical theories. He believes that, despite the challenges, a unique solution consistent with our universe exists—but finding it could take many more years.

A topological revolution in physics: from Mobius strips to massless fermions

Zahid Hasan, a Bangladeshi quantum physicist and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Quantum Physics for “Weyl fermion semimetals.”

Hasan and his team at Princeton University have pioneered research in topological quantum materials, opening a new frontier in matter physics. These exotic materials influence electron behavior through their topology, acting like metals on the surface while insulating internally.

One of Hasan’s most significant achievements is the discovery of the Weyl fermion, a massless quasiparticle in a topological semimetal, which holds promise for ultra-fast transistors and quantum devices. His group is also developing Kagome lattices and topological superconductors, which could underpin fault-tolerant qubits.

According to Hasan, topological physics not only has technological applications but also deepens our understanding of the nature of matter and the universe, showing that “emergent phenomena in topological physics are probably all around us, even in a piece of rock.”

In Search of Tolerance: A New Path in Immunology to Prevent Transplant Rejection

Mohamed El-Sayegh, prominent researcher in transplantation immunology and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Medicine for “Novel Therapies to Improve Renal and Cardiac Allograft Outcomes.”

He is working on inducing immunologic tolerance to “trick” the body’s immune system into accepting organ transplants and preventing rejection. By studying both direct and indirect allorecognition mechanisms of T-cells, they have developed strategies to reduce the risk of chronic transplant rejection.

According to El-Sayegh, success in this field could revolutionize kidney and other organ transplants, allowing the acceptance of foreign tissue without fully suppressing the immune system. His research spans from animal studies to the development of clinical trials, paving a new path toward longer and healthier lives for transplant recipients.

Exploring beyond the standard model: thousands of physicists toil at LHC

Yahya Tayalati, Moroccan researcher in theoretical and particle physics and a laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize for “Observation of the Light by Light Scattering and the Search for Magnetic Monopoles.”

Thousands of physicists at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) have collaborated to explore the mysteries beyond the Standard Model of particle physics. The discovery of the Higgs boson in 2012 completed the last piece of the Standard Model puzzle, yet fundamental questions about dark matter, dark energy, and neutrino masses remain unanswered.

Tayalati who has contributed to the ATLAS project for over 20 years, recently reported the rare observation of light-by-light scattering—a process forbidden in classical electrodynamics but appearing in quantum theory. This breakthrough opens a new path for searching for dark matter particles.

Tayalati believes detecting a signal that can be interpreted as a candidate for dark matter or graviton could be a true milestone in fundamental physics, pushing our understanding beyond the Standard Model into a new frontier.

Hunting therapeutic molecules within medicinal herbs

Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Pakistani biochemist at Karachi University and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Bio-organic Chemistry for “Discovery of fascinating molecules with therapeutic applications.” Choudhary’s research involves studying traditional medicinal plant extracts in a modern laboratory to identify potential therapeutic molecules. His team has successfully isolated compounds with antiepileptic, antileishmanial, and enzyme-inhibiting properties—including urease inhibitors—that are currently undergoing clinical trials.

Choudhry strongly believes that rigorous scientific testing and standardization are essential to evaluate the safety and efficacy of medicinal plants. His research aims to discover therapeutic solutions for common and neglected tropical diseases, and he envisions establishing an international, multidisciplinary center to tackle these illnesses on a global scale.

The 2023 Laureates

Mining software repositories: a novel approach to enhance software development

Ahmed Hassan, an Egyptian researcher and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in information and communication science and technology, for his work on “Mining Software Repositories (MSR).”

MSR is an emerging field in software engineering that analyzes data from version control systems, email archives, and bug trackers to reveal hidden relationships between code components and development trends. Using techniques such as change coupling analysis and commit inspection, it helps developers improve code quality, reduce errors, and identify frequently used components. Hassan, a pioneer in this field, notes that the idea of collecting and analyzing such data has grown into a globally influential discipline, adopted by companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon to enhance their products.

Targeted Nano-drugs: New hope for cancer treatment

Omid Farokhzad, Iranian researcher and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Life and Medical Science and Technology for “Design, Development, and Clinical Translation of Novel Polymeric Nanomedicines.”

Farokhzad, a prominent Iranian scientist and recipient of the 2023 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize, has made significant strides in targeted cancer therapy through the development of polymeric nanomedicines and advanced drug delivery systems. These technologies precisely target cancer cells while sparing healthy ones, enhancing treatment efficacy and reducing side effects. His achievements include designing nanocarriers for immunotherapy, cancer vaccines, and nanoscale tissue-repair tools, opening new frontiers in modern medicine.

A New Horizon in Treating Multiple Sclerosis

Samia Khoury, a distinguished Lebanese researcher for “Novel Approaches for the Care of MS Patients: Pathogenesis and Mechanisms of Regulation and Tolerance.” Khoury has brought new hope to millions of patients worldwide through innovative research on multiple sclerosis (MS) and the establishment of a multidisciplinary MS care center in Lebanon. This center, staffed by physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and social workers, provides comprehensive care, including symptom management, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and psychological support.

Her research involves identifying genetic and environmental factors influencing the onset and progression of MS, including vitamin D deficiency, smoking, geographic location, and the role of the EBV virus. Her studies also revealed that retinal layer thinning can predict disease progression up to two years before clinical symptoms appear.

Khoury has also used animal models to study the impact of environmental factors on the nervous system and introduced innovative approaches, such as inducing immune tolerance through oral antigens to reduce disease symptoms. Her findings indicate that timely vitamin D intake, quitting smoking, and continuous patient monitoring can help slow the progression of MS.

With her accomplishments, Khoury has not only brought the scientific community one step closer to an effective treatment for MS but has also brought hope and resilience to patients in the face of today’s medical challenges.

High strides to solve the global water crisis with membrane technology

Ahmad Fawzi Ismail, distinguished Malaysian scientist and laureate of the 5^th Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize for “Development of Membrane Technology Applications.”

Ismail has devised effective solutions for treating oil-contaminated wastewater, desalinating seawater, and separating gases. The nanostructured membranes designed by his team are characterized by extreme water repellency, high oil affinity, and resilience under harsh conditions, thus being highly efficient across the oil and gas, agriculture, and medical industries. This technology not only aids in water resource management and water scarcity but also enhances dialysis and blood purification, improving patient care. Ismail’s achievements stand as a compelling example of applying science to address environmental and industrial challenges.

From Smoke to Laser

Communications have come a long way—from smoke signals and sunlight reflections in ancient battles to the cutting-edge technologies developed by Murat Uysal, a leading researcher in the field. He has pioneered optical wireless communications (OWC), including visible light communication (VLC) and free-space optical communication (FSOC), offering solutions to ease the burden on radio frequency bandwidth. His innovations are enhancing underwater communications, enabling smart city development, improving road safety, and powering medical sensor networks, opening a new horizon for a faster, safer, and smarter world. These technologies envision a future where lights, vehicles, and even clothing can communicate with us and with each other.

According to Isna, the 6^th Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize ceremony will be held on September 8 at Vahdat Hall, coinciding with the birth anniversary of the Prophet of Islam. The event will host Iranian and international scientists, prominent and other distinguished guests from the Islamic world. A series of science outreach and specialized programs will take place in the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize Week, from September 6 to 10.

Tehran - ISNA - The Mustafa^(pbuh)  Prize, recognized as one of the most prestigious scientific awards in the Islamic world, stands as a symbol of pride and scientific excellence across Islamic countries. Presented every two years, it honors scientists and researchers who have made outstanding contributions in various fields of science and technology and played a pivotal role in advancing the frontiers of knowledge. Named in tribute to the Prophet of Islam, who was a messenger of knowledge, virtue, and peace, the Prize aims to create a platform for scientific collaboration among leading minds in the Islamic world and beyond.

The Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize is not just a recognition of scientific achievement; it is a bridge connecting hearts and minds—a bridge that transcends geographical boundaries and brings scientists together around the shared goal of progress and sustainable development. By highlighting exemplary role models, the Prize inspires future generations to build a brighter future for humanity relying on their knowledge, hopes, and efforts.

The Mustafa^(pbuh) Science and Technology Foundation launched the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in 2012 with a vision of promoting peace and human well-being. The Foundation’s mission is to advance science and technology across the Islamic world. To achieve this, it focuses on recognizing and honoring outstanding scientists, fostering collaboration among researchers, and enhancing cooperation and synergy between Islamic countries in the fields of science and technology, with a special emphasis on advanced technologies.

The Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize was established as a global symbol of scientific excellence, honoring outstanding scientists and fostering collaboration and the advancement of science worldwide. The prize is awarded to innovative works at the frontiers of knowledge which have the potential to improve human life and are conducted by distinguished individuals in science and technology. In addition to receiving the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize medal and certificate, laureates are honored with a $500,000 award—funded by philanthropists and through scientific endowments—during a grand ceremony attended by scholars and intellectuals from around the world. Twenty percent of the cash prize is allocated for providing the laureates with:

• research grants to present to researchers in Islamic countries
• research sabbatical funding to present to researchers in Islamic countries
• travel grants to attend the MSTF events or events held in Islamic countries
• grants to publish co-written articles with researchers from Islamic countries
• funding for carrying out joint projects in Islamic countries
• funding for establishing joint scientific institutions in Islamic countries
• funding for the admission of graduate students from Islamic countries
• funding to join and engage with scientific organizations in Islamic countries

The Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize is awarded based on the following criteria:

• Outstanding qualities of the work: Judges look for innovation in the scientific approach, the pioneering nature of the contribution, and its lasting impact. Additionally, the work should have tangible applications or demonstrably influence the world of science. Participants are expected to provide sufficient and verifiable evidence to support these qualities.
• Scope of impact: The scientific work should contribute to expanding the frontiers of knowledge and have a significant scientific influence at the global or regional level. It should either be published as a scientific theory in reputable scientific outlets or have the potential to be translated into economic projects and create wealth. Moreover, the work should have a tangible impact on culture, society, public health, the environment, and the public well-being, addressing scientific needs or contributing to the resolution of social challenges.
• Qualities of the nominee: Candidates for the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize must have a good reputation and an outstanding academic track record in their field of expertise. Such credentials may be demonstrated through published works and articles in reputable scientific journals, registered innovations or patents, or contributions to the development of new technologies. Having a broad and scientific mindset is also a key quality sought in the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize laureates.

The 2015 Laureates

A promising approach for gas storage

Omar Yaghi, Jordanian researcher and laureate of the 2015 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Nanoscience and Technology for his work on “Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs).”

At the 2015 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize ceremony, Omar Yaghi, a distinguished Jordanian-American scientist, was honored with the award in recognition of his groundbreaking achievements in designing and synthesizing novel classes of chemical compounds. His pioneering research led to the invention and development of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), and covalent organic frameworks (COFs)—materials created by linking organic and inorganic units through strong bonds into crystalline structures.

These breakthroughs have found wide-ranging applications in the storage of gases such as hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide; in hydrocarbon separation, catalysis, and even in emerging electronic technologies. Today, they are used in more than a thousand academic and industrial laboratories worldwide. Yaghi’s inventions have turned the long-held dream of chemists—to design and build materials with tailored structures—into reality, inspiring a new generation of young researchers across the globe.

Born in 1966 in Amman, Jordan, Yaghi completed his higher education at New York University and the University of Illinois. He went on to teach and conduct research at leading American universities, including Harvard, Arizona, Michigan, UCLA, and Berkeley. Over the course of his career, he has received numerous international awards, such as the Sacconi Medal (2004), the US Department of Energy Hydrogen Program Award (2007), the ACS Award in the Chemistry of Materials (2009), and the King Faisal Prize (2015). With more than 200 published scientific papers, he is ranked among the world’s top five scientists.

Smart drug delivery

Jackie Yi-Ru Ying, Singaporean researcher and laureate of the 2015 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Bionanotechnology for “the synthesis of advanced nanostructured materials and systems, including the development of polymeric nanoparticles in stimuli-responsive systems for smart drug delivery.”

Ying’s pioneering research—including the development of nanoparticles, nanocomposites, and nanoporous materials—has opened new horizons in nanostructured materials. Through her innovative “nanotechnology toolbox,” she has developed technologies with wide-ranging applications in drug development, cell and tissue engineering, biosensors, green chemistry, and energy. To date, she has published over 340 scientific papers and holds over 150 patents (granted or pending), many of which have been successfully commercialized.

One of her most remarkable achievements is the development of polymeric nanoparticles that are capable of auto-regulating the release of insulin. Ying’s invention eliminates the need for glucose monitoring devices and enables non-injection routes of insulin delivery for diabetic patients. Commercialized by SmartCells, this technology was acquired by Merck in 2010 with a $500 million investment allocated for further clinical development.

Born in 1966 in Taipei and raised in Singapore and New York, Ying received her academic degrees from The Cooper Union and Princeton University. She has served as a faculty member at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and as the founding Executive Director of the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (IBN) in Singapore. She has earned numerous international awards, including the Ross C. Purdy Award, the Packard Fellowship, ACS's Solid-State Chemistry Award, and the Brunei Crown Prince Grand Prize.

Recognized as one of the world’s top 100 engineers, she was listed among the 500 most influential Muslims from 2012 to 2015 and was named Singapore’s Woman of the Year in 2014. Ying also serves as the Editor-in-Chief of Nano Today, a journal with an impact factor of 15,000, and plays a key role in guiding and inspiring the next generation of researchers.

The 2017 Laureates

Sami Erol Gelenbe, a distinguished Turkish computer scientist, electronic engineer, and applied mathematician and laureate of the 2017 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Information and Communication Science and Technology.

He is a professor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Imperial College London, and has made significant contributions to the development of queueing network theory and its advanced applications in ICT.

After graduating from Ankara University and Middle East Technical University and receiving several research awards, Gelenbe earned his master’s and Ph.D. degrees from the Polytechnic Institute of New York. His doctoral dissertation focused on probabilistic automata with structural restrictions. At INRIA and the University of Paris-Sud, he established a research team that developed models and software for the analysis of queueing networks. His inventions include diffusion approximations for computer performance, optimization of MAC protocols, and increasing the reliability of database systems.

One of Gelenbe’s major achievements is the design of G-Networks (also known as Gelenbe Networks)—mathematical models that evaluate the performance of ICT systems that incorporate important control functions, and are used for removing overload and moving work dynamically among servers. He also introduced a new spiked stochastic neural network model known as the Random Neural Network, developed its mathematical solution and learning algorithms. He has also introduced a novel model of the Stochastic Spiking Neural Network (often referred to as the Random Neural Network), whose learning algorithms have been employed in both engineering and biological applications.

Gelenbe and his colleagues at LMT made a major invention that made voice transmission over a packet network router possible. This technology which is the basis of modern communication tools such as Skype was patented in 1979 and awarded in 1982.

Gelenbe has also founded the ISCIS (International Symposium on Computer and Information Sciences) series of conferences that, since 1986, are held annually, bringing together Turkish computer scientists with their international counterparts. He is currently working on the interaction between Energy Consumption and Quality of Service in ICT, and on improving the security of Networks and the Cloud. He has mentored over 76 PhD students, and numerous post-doctoral fellows.

Gelenbe’s introduction of G-Networks and the related software, which were made freely available to universities and research centers worldwide, has now become an industry standard in ICT and telecommunications—highlighting his unparalleled impact on the advancement of information science and technology.

Developing raptor codes

Mohammad Amin Shokrollahi, full professor at the Swiss Federal Technology Institute of Lausanne (EPFL) in the fields of algorithms and algorithmic mathematics and laureate of the 2017 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize for his invention of Raptor codes and their lasting impact on communications and data networks.

Born in Iran in 1964, Shokrollahi received his M.Sc. in Mathematics at the University of Karlsruhe and his Ph.D degree at the University of Bonn, Germany. His Ph.D dissertation, entitled ”Contributions to coding and complexity theory via algebraic function fields,” reflected his focus on advancing error correction codes.

Shokrollahi is the co-inventor of Tornado codes and the inventor of Raptor Codes. The world's most advanced forward error correction (FEC) code for data networks, Raptor codes invented by Shokrollahi in 2001, provides protection against packet loss by sending additional repair data used to reconstruct "erased" or "lost" data. They are used in applications such as internet TV streaming, mobile communications, and data distribution to rural areas. This technology is marketed under the brand RaptorQ by Qualcomm and is being used by millions of products worldwide.

For his work on the design and development of Raptor and Fountain Codes, he was awarded the 2007 IEEE Eric E. Sumner Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to Communications, and the 2012 Hamming Medal, which is among the most prestigious awards of the IEEE. Shokrollahi founded the First Summer School on Theoretical Aspects of Computer Science in Tehran and held workshops on Raptor codes for mobile communications at the University of Tehran. He has also mentored numerous Ph.D. students and postdoctoral fellows from Islamic countries.

Raptor codes, invented by Shokrollahi in 2001, increase the reliability of data networks by transforming the original message into a longer one and using minimal error-correction data. This innovation has become a global standard in telecommunications and data transmission.

The 2019 Laureates

Personalized immunotherapy: new battle against cancer

Ugur Sahin, a Turkish researcher in biomedical and medical science and a laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize for the “Development and Clinical Testing of mRNA-based Cancer Vaccines that are tailored to the Mutation Profile of a Cancer Patient.” Sahin, a physician-scientist and CEO of the biotechnology company BioNTech, has pioneered a new approach in cancer treatment through the development of personalized messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. These vaccines train the patient’s immune cells to recognize and destroy the mutated proteins specific to their own cancer cells.

Sahin’s research, whose human trial results were published in Nature, has shown that this approach can halt tumor progression and bring immunotherapy to a personalized level. Sahin emphasizes that success in the fight against cancer requires a combination of interdisciplinary research, advanced technologies, and a determined mindset—qualities pursued by Germany’s TRON Institute and BioNTech, with a focus on translating medical science into practical applications.

Bio-printing: the future of regenerative medicine

Ali Khademhosseini, a professor of bioengineering and a laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh)  Prize in Life and Medical Science and Technology for “Nano and Micro fabricated Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications.”

Researchers are using bioprinting to develop human tissues and organs that can replace damaged ones or be used for drug testing. This technology, which relies on “bio-inks containing cells and active materials,” enables the creation of complex structures such as skin, bone, lungs, heart, and kidneys.

Khademhosseini states that the current goal is the laboratory use of these tissues to personalize treatments and reduce ineffective medications. However, a future in which custom tissues and organs are printed for each patient is not out of reach. These advancements demonstrate that bioprinting is not merely the material of science fiction but represents a “new frontier in regenerative medicine” and personalized healthcare.

Mysterious lightning between the Earth and space

Umran Inan, Turkish scientist and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Ionospheric and Atmospheric Physics for “understanding of whistler-mode wave-particle interaction in near-Earth space, and the electrodynamic coupling between lightning discharges and the upper atmosphere.”

Scientists have documented upper-atmosphere lightning, an astonishing and little-known phenomenon occurring 50 to 100 kilometers above thunderclouds. These luminous events—which include red sprites, elves, blue jets, and gamma-ray bursts—differ from conventional lightning, producing unusual shapes and colors.

These phenomena not only open new horizons in physics and aerospace research but can also affect the performance of satellites, GPS systems, and even the ozone layer. Despite recent advances, the precise mechanisms that trigger these lightning events and the reasons behind the formation of these mysterious “sprites” remain one of the great enigmas between Earth and space.

Hossein Baharvand: a pioneer of cell-therapy and regenerative medicine in Iran

Hossein Baharvand, an Iranian researcher in stem cell biology and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh)  Prize in Stem Cell Biology for “Parkinson's treatment and Eye AMD with Stem Cell.” Baharvand, a developmental biologist at Royan Institute, has pioneered a new path in regenerative medicine and cell therapy in Iran by producing human induced pluripotent stem cells. He and his team have derived dopaminergic progenitor cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells from human pluripotent stem cells and tested them in animal models of Parkinson’s disease and AMD. Their work has demonstrated improved neurological and visual function without the risk of uncontrolled cell growth.

Baharvand has published over 350 scientific papers and received numerous national and international awards, including the 2019 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize. His efforts have paved the way for the development of stem cell therapies for age-related diseases, raising new hopes for healthier and longer lives.

Iran’s Metas-Chip: Rapid Cancer Metastasis Detection

Mohammad Abdolahad, an Iranian researcher in Nano electronics and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Nano electronic Science and Technology for “Translating the Behavior of Healthy and Cancerous Cells into the Electronic Field” — opening new pathways for cancer diagnosis and treatment.

His team at the University of Tehran developed the Metas-Chip biosensor, which was able to detect breast cancer metastasis in less than five hours across more than 70 patients, even identifying invasive cells that conventional pathology methods had missed.

This microelectronic biosensor technology is the result of a collaborative effort between engineers, biologists, and biotechnologists, promising fast, non-invasive, and accurate early detection of cancer. Recent advances have brought the chip to the brink of large-scale clinical trials and commercialization.

The 2021 Laureates

Cumrun Vafa and string theory: looking for the theory of everything

Cumrun Vafa, Iranian physicist, pioneer in string theory, laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh)  Prize in Theoretical Physics for “F-theory.”

Vafa works toward realizing Einstein’s dream of a theory of everything, aiming to reconcile the apparent contradictions between general relativity and quantum mechanics.

Through the development of F-theory and the ‘Swampland’ concept, Vafa has shown how extra dimensions and geometric features in string theory can explain our universe, doing away with certain inconsistent physical theories. He believes that, despite the challenges, a unique solution consistent with our universe exists—but finding it could take many more years.

A topological revolution in physics: from Mobius strips to massless fermions

Zahid Hasan, a Bangladeshi quantum physicist and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Quantum Physics for “Weyl fermion semimetals.”

Hasan and his team at Princeton University have pioneered research in topological quantum materials, opening a new frontier in matter physics. These exotic materials influence electron behavior through their topology, acting like metals on the surface while insulating internally.

One of Hasan’s most significant achievements is the discovery of the Weyl fermion, a massless quasiparticle in a topological semimetal, which holds promise for ultra-fast transistors and quantum devices. His group is also developing Kagome lattices and topological superconductors, which could underpin fault-tolerant qubits.

According to Hasan, topological physics not only has technological applications but also deepens our understanding of the nature of matter and the universe, showing that “emergent phenomena in topological physics are probably all around us, even in a piece of rock.”

In Search of Tolerance: A New Path in Immunology to Prevent Transplant Rejection

Mohamed El-Sayegh, prominent researcher in transplantation immunology and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Medicine for “Novel Therapies to Improve Renal and Cardiac Allograft Outcomes.”

He is working on inducing immunologic tolerance to “trick” the body’s immune system into accepting organ transplants and preventing rejection. By studying both direct and indirect allorecognition mechanisms of T-cells, they have developed strategies to reduce the risk of chronic transplant rejection.

According to El-Sayegh, success in this field could revolutionize kidney and other organ transplants, allowing the acceptance of foreign tissue without fully suppressing the immune system. His research spans from animal studies to the development of clinical trials, paving a new path toward longer and healthier lives for transplant recipients.

Exploring beyond the standard model: thousands of physicists toil at LHC

Yahya Tayalati, Moroccan researcher in theoretical and particle physics and a laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize for “Observation of the Light by Light Scattering and the Search for Magnetic Monopoles.”

Thousands of physicists at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) have collaborated to explore the mysteries beyond the Standard Model of particle physics. The discovery of the Higgs boson in 2012 completed the last piece of the Standard Model puzzle, yet fundamental questions about dark matter, dark energy, and neutrino masses remain unanswered.

Tayalati who has contributed to the ATLAS project for over 20 years, recently reported the rare observation of light-by-light scattering—a process forbidden in classical electrodynamics but appearing in quantum theory. This breakthrough opens a new path for searching for dark matter particles.

Tayalati believes detecting a signal that can be interpreted as a candidate for dark matter or graviton could be a true milestone in fundamental physics, pushing our understanding beyond the Standard Model into a new frontier.

Hunting therapeutic molecules within medicinal herbs

Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Pakistani biochemist at Karachi University and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Bio-organic Chemistry for “Discovery of fascinating molecules with therapeutic applications.” Choudhary’s research involves studying traditional medicinal plant extracts in a modern laboratory to identify potential therapeutic molecules. His team has successfully isolated compounds with antiepileptic, antileishmanial, and enzyme-inhibiting properties—including urease inhibitors—that are currently undergoing clinical trials.

Choudhry strongly believes that rigorous scientific testing and standardization are essential to evaluate the safety and efficacy of medicinal plants. His research aims to discover therapeutic solutions for common and neglected tropical diseases, and he envisions establishing an international, multidisciplinary center to tackle these illnesses on a global scale.

The 2023 Laureates

Mining software repositories: a novel approach to enhance software development

Ahmed Hassan, an Egyptian researcher and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in information and communication science and technology, for his work on “Mining Software Repositories (MSR).”

MSR is an emerging field in software engineering that analyzes data from version control systems, email archives, and bug trackers to reveal hidden relationships between code components and development trends. Using techniques such as change coupling analysis and commit inspection, it helps developers improve code quality, reduce errors, and identify frequently used components. Hassan, a pioneer in this field, notes that the idea of collecting and analyzing such data has grown into a globally influential discipline, adopted by companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon to enhance their products.

Targeted Nano-drugs: New hope for cancer treatment

Omid Farokhzad, Iranian researcher and laureate of the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize in Life and Medical Science and Technology for “Design, Development, and Clinical Translation of Novel Polymeric Nanomedicines.”

Farokhzad, a prominent Iranian scientist and recipient of the 2023 Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize, has made significant strides in targeted cancer therapy through the development of polymeric nanomedicines and advanced drug delivery systems. These technologies precisely target cancer cells while sparing healthy ones, enhancing treatment efficacy and reducing side effects. His achievements include designing nanocarriers for immunotherapy, cancer vaccines, and nanoscale tissue-repair tools, opening new frontiers in modern medicine.

A New Horizon in Treating Multiple Sclerosis

Samia Khoury, a distinguished Lebanese researcher for “Novel Approaches for the Care of MS Patients: Pathogenesis and Mechanisms of Regulation and Tolerance.” Khoury has brought new hope to millions of patients worldwide through innovative research on multiple sclerosis (MS) and the establishment of a multidisciplinary MS care center in Lebanon. This center, staffed by physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and social workers, provides comprehensive care, including symptom management, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and psychological support.

Her research involves identifying genetic and environmental factors influencing the onset and progression of MS, including vitamin D deficiency, smoking, geographic location, and the role of the EBV virus. Her studies also revealed that retinal layer thinning can predict disease progression up to two years before clinical symptoms appear.

Khoury has also used animal models to study the impact of environmental factors on the nervous system and introduced innovative approaches, such as inducing immune tolerance through oral antigens to reduce disease symptoms. Her findings indicate that timely vitamin D intake, quitting smoking, and continuous patient monitoring can help slow the progression of MS.

With her accomplishments, Khoury has not only brought the scientific community one step closer to an effective treatment for MS but has also brought hope and resilience to patients in the face of today’s medical challenges.

High strides to solve the global water crisis with membrane technology

Ahmad Fawzi Ismail, distinguished Malaysian scientist and laureate of the 5^th Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize for “Development of Membrane Technology Applications.”

Ismail has devised effective solutions for treating oil-contaminated wastewater, desalinating seawater, and separating gases. The nanostructured membranes designed by his team are characterized by extreme water repellency, high oil affinity, and resilience under harsh conditions, thus being highly efficient across the oil and gas, agriculture, and medical industries. This technology not only aids in water resource management and water scarcity but also enhances dialysis and blood purification, improving patient care. Ismail’s achievements stand as a compelling example of applying science to address environmental and industrial challenges.

From Smoke to Laser

Communications have come a long way—from smoke signals and sunlight reflections in ancient battles to the cutting-edge technologies developed by Murat Uysal, a leading researcher in the field. He has pioneered optical wireless communications (OWC), including visible light communication (VLC) and free-space optical communication (FSOC), offering solutions to ease the burden on radio frequency bandwidth. His innovations are enhancing underwater communications, enabling smart city development, improving road safety, and powering medical sensor networks, opening a new horizon for a faster, safer, and smarter world. These technologies envision a future where lights, vehicles, and even clothing can communicate with us and with each other.

According to Isna, the 6^th Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize ceremony will be held on September 8 at Vahdat Hall, coinciding with the birth anniversary of the Prophet of Islam. The event will host Iranian and international scientists, prominent and other distinguished guests from the Islamic world. A series of science outreach and specialized programs will take place in the Mustafa^(pbuh) Prize Week, from September 6 to 10.