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Mats Larsson, Professor of molecular physics, Stockholm University

I helped select the Nobel laureates in physics – here's how our committee decides

The author, Mats Larsson, on the right during the 2023 announcement. Kungliga Vetenskapsakademin, CC BY-SA

I am serving my ninth and final year in the Nobel Committee for Physics, which is an absolutely fascinating job – albeit hard. The best bit is hearing the reactions of the shocked laureates when they receive some of the biggest news of their lives over the phone.

Sometimes, I also give presentations about how Nobel laureates are selected. This can be in front of participants in a Nobel symposium, or in front of a high school class. And I have noticed that, while the topic tends to generate great interest, the process is poorly understood.

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