In an evening dedicated to pioneering scientific achievement, the Bodossaki Foundation recently honored two world-renowned scholars whose life’s work has fundamentally shifted how we understand our world.
On June 25, 2026, the Athens Concert Hall hosted the Bodossaki Excellence Award Ceremony. Attended by leaders from the academic, scientific, and political communities, the event featured a keynote address by the President of the Republic, Konstantinos An. Tasoulas, who presented the awards alongside a €100,000 prize to each laureate.
In his address, President Tasoulas emphasized the vital intersection of human values and technical progress:
“Through your long-term research and the direction of your academic pursuits, you have proven how fruitful the alignment of technological innovation with human values can be. May you continue your work with the same strength and inspiration.”
Meet the Bodossaki Foundation’s 2026 Laureates
The selections were made by an elite committee of eight internationally recognized scientists, co-chaired by Daniela Rus (MIT) and Sir Richard Blundell (UCL).
1. Technological Sciences: Christos Papadimitriou, Donovan Family Professor of Computer Science, Columbia University
Papadimitriou was recognized for shaping the very foundations of computer science globally. His research spans algorithms, complexity theory, databases, and artificial intelligence.
Introducing him, Daniela Rus noted that his work proves computation is not just a tool for solving isolated problems, but “a language for comprehending the world.” For Papadimitriou, receiving this accolade in his homeland holds unique personal meaning:
“The Bodossaki Excellence Award holds a special place among [my awards], as it is the first scientific accolade I have received in Greece… It is also an outstanding example of an impeccable, rigorous, and politically impartial process.”
2. Social Sciences: Pinelopi Koujianou Goldberg, William Nordhaus Professor of Economics and Global Affairs, Yale University
Goldberg, a former Chief Economist of the World Bank, was celebrated as the world’s leading empirical researcher in globalization and trade policy. Sir Richard Blundell highlighted her path-breaking contributions at a critical historical juncture where trade debate is more centralized than ever.
Reflecting on the modern landscape of her field, Goldberg shared:
“This is the second time the Bodossaki Foundation has honored my research work… In an era where it is not only openness that is being challenged, but also science and intellect, showcasing scientific achievement carries particular significance.”
Guided by the foundational vision of its creator, Prodromos Bodossakis Athanasiadis, the Bodossaki Foundation remains deeply committed to supporting scientific work that offers lasting, essential benefits to society as a whole.
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