The 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been announced, with Soai Kenso of Tokyo University of Science named as one of two winners. 

They are recognized for discovering nonlinear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric organic synthesis. 

This marks the second consecutive year that a Japanese scientist has won the chemistry prize following Kyoto University executive director Kitagawa Susumu’s win last year. 

Through last year, 30 Japanese individuals—including researchers who acquired US citizenship—and one Japanese organization had received Nobel Prizes. Soai becomes the 31st individual. 

The award ceremony will take place in Stockholm, Sweden, on December 10.