Taipei: American scientist John Martinis, co-recipient of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics, shared his insights into Taiwan's scientific capabilities in an interview with CNA, highlighting the country's status as a global manufacturing hub and the success of its companies.
According to Focus Taiwan, Martinis, who has collaborated with Taiwan's leading research institution Academia Sinica, expressed his belief that Taiwan's expertise in semiconductor device manufacturing presents a significant advantage. Martinis, alongside U.S.-based scientists John Clarke and Michel Devoret, received the Nobel Prize for their groundbreaking "experiments that revealed quantum physics in action," which have laid the groundwork for modern digital technologies and advancements in quantum computing.
Martinis has been serving as an advisor to Academia Sinica's quantum program since his departure from Google in 2020. Academia Sinica President James Liao, during an online media event in Taipei, shared Martinis' perspectives on the Nobel Prize announcement. Martinis, in his interview with CNA, noted the congratulatory messages he received from Taiwan and emphasized his special connection with the country.
He acknowledged Taiwan's proficiency in fabrication and electronic devices, as well as its commitment to promoting scientific research with a focus on practical applications. Martinis expressed his satisfaction in assisting Academia Sinica, noting that Taiwan and its companies are now in a position to invest in basic science. This investment provides a crucial link between practical applications and fundamental research, offering students and young researchers the opportunity to learn fundamental science with an eye toward long-term practical applications.