Suffolk Reporter

Three faculty members from Stony Brook University have been selected as finalists for the 2025 Stony Brook Foundation Discovery Prize. This award, amounting to $200,000, is designed to honor early-career researchers making significant scientific advancements and enhancing the university's reputation in research innovation.

The finalists for this year include Jennifer Cano from the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Paolo Celli from the Department of Civil Engineering, and Yifan Zhou from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Each has been recognized for their innovative research projects.

Jennifer Cano is noted for her work on a "Theoretical Framework for the Discovery of Topological Moiré Materials." Her research focuses on quantum materials and topological phases of matter. She developed a theory combining group theory, topology, and chemistry to predict new topological materials.

Paolo Celli is working on "Load-Bearing Enviro-Morphing Structures," focusing on structural systems with unique functionalities that adapt to their environment. His expertise lies in solid mechanics, structural dynamics, and wave physics.

Yifan Zhou's project titled "Revolutionizing Power Grid Computing Through Quantum-Driven Analytics" explores the intersection of power systems with quantum computing and machine learning. Her work aims at developing adaptive power system operations supporting real-time analysis for large-scale power systems.

The finalists will present their projects on March 6 at the Charles B. Wang Center Theatre. The event will conclude with an announcement of the winner after evaluations by a panel of judges.

Stony Brook Interim President Richard L. McCormick emphasized the importance of fundamental research in maintaining Stony Brook's legacy as a prestigious institution: “To maintain this legacy, it is crucial to keep fundamental research at the core of Stony Brook’s mission by encouraging our brightest minds to pursue ambitious ideas that shape our world.”

Past winners include Chris Johnson (2023), Eszter Boros (2021), Il Memming Park (2019), Thomas Allison (2017), and Laurie Krug (2014).