On Tuesday, October 7, 2025, three exceptional women scientists were awarded the Nobel Prize in each of the natural sciences. John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret, and John M. Martinis were recognized for their outstanding achievements in elucidating the principles of quantum mechanical tunneling. The announcement from the Nobel Committee came as dramatic news during the morning meeting at the Nobel Assembly. This special event was hosted at the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden.
The trio’s creative efforts in the mid-1980s opened the door to major discoveries in quantum physics. Their works demonstrated essential tenets of quantum mechanics. Beyond that, they showcased how these theories can be seen in today’s technology. Clarke, who has done wide-ranging work at the University of California, Berkeley, said he was shocked when he learned he’d received the award.
“To put it mildly, it was the surprise of my life.” – John Clarke
Pioneering Research in Quantum Mechanics
Additional pioneering experiments by Clarke, Devoret and Martinis at the University of California, Berkeley, from 1984 through 1985. Their achievements were seminal in proving the existence of quantum mechanical tunneling and quantized energy levels. They focused on developing a portable device. This scientific breakthrough was an example of how we are able to directly experience quantum phenomena on a gigantic scale.
The basis of their research was an electrical circuit made sole of superconducting materials. This circuit actually used a Josephson junction, which was formed by connecting two superconductors with a thin insulating barrier separating them. They took their first measurements by applying voltage across the junction, which read zero at first. This measurement was what gave them the ability to vividly demonstrate the principles of quantum mechanics.
In their clever experimental realization, the system served as a playground to display its quantum nature. It used tunneling effects to escape this zero-voltage state and produced an electrical voltage to do so. Their discovery showed us that we can witness quantum tunneling in macroscopic scales. Counter-intuitively, it happens in more complex systems with many, many particles.
Implications for Modern Technology
The Nobel Prize given to Clarke, Devoret, and Martinis highlights the far-reaching effects their work has had on today’s technology. Quantum mechanics is the bedrock for every aspect of the digital revolution, impacting everything from computing to telecommunications. Their academic work produces profitable ideas that propel the state of the art in quantum computing. Today, these discoveries have opened the door to breakthroughs in other emerging technologies.
As researchers worldwide continue to explore the myriad ways these principles can be applied, the possibilities appear endless. This recognition by the Nobel Committee highlights the importance of foundational research to large-scale, transformative technical advancement.
“It is wonderful to be able to celebrate the way that century-old quantum mechanics continually offers new surprises. It is also enormously useful, as quantum mechanics is the foundation of all digital technology.” – Olle Eriksson
The award ceremony will recognize Clarke, Devoret, and Martinis on December 10, 2023. This date is no coincidence, as it happens to be the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death in 1896. This year’s event is sure to honor not just their specific accomplishments but the pioneering teamwork that makes the scientific journey an adventure worth exploring.
Upcoming Award Ceremony
The attention given by this year’s Nobel Prize in Physics highlights the incredible power of collaboration. It demonstrates that collaboration can initiate the discoveries that revolutionize science and technology. These three scientists are warming up to receive their well-deserved applause. We know their pioneering efforts will motivate generations of new researchers and innovators.
The Nobel Prize in Physics highlights how collaborative efforts can lead to breakthroughs that change the landscape of science and technology. As these three scientists prepare for their esteemed recognition, their work will undoubtedly inspire future generations of researchers and innovators.