Oxford Instruments has awarded the 2025 Nicholas Kurti Science Prize to Dr. Jere Mäkinen, a Research Fellow at Aalto University, Finland, in recognition of his research into topological structures and dynamics within topological superfluids at ultra-cold temperatures. His work, conducted using low-temperature techniques similar to those pioneered by Professor Nicholas Kurti, focuses on quantum vortices – specifically, half-quantum vortices, walls bounded by strings, and energy dissipation in quantum turbulence – within fermionic condensates of helium-3. The prize, worth 15,000, also includes support for Dr. Mkinen to attend the 30th International Conference on Low Temperature Physics in Bilbao, Spain, in August 2025, and acknowledges research with potential implications for high-temperature superconductivity and future quantum technologies.
Award of the 2025 Nicholas Kurti Prize
Dr Jere Mäkinen receives the 2025 Nicholas Kurti Science Prize in recognition of his investigations into topological structures within topological superfluids at ultra-cold temperatures. The selection committee, co-chaired by Professor Richard Haley of Lancaster University and Dr Natalia Ares of the University of Oxford, recognised the impact and potential of his work. The Nicholas Kurti Prize includes a £15,000 award and support to attend the 30th International Conference on Low Temperature Physics (LT30) in Bilbao, Spain, acknowledging the significance of his contributions. This award underscores the importance of fundamental research in low-temperature physics and its potential to drive future technological advancements.
Advancements in Quantum Vortex Research
Mäkinen’s investigations extend to the dynamics of quantum vortices, examining the Kelvin-wave cascade as a mechanism for energy dissipation within quantum turbulence. This cascade describes how energy transfers from larger-scale turbulent motions to smaller scales, ultimately leading to dissipation, a process crucial to understanding fluid dynamics at ultra-low temperatures. Understanding this process is vital as classical models of turbulence often fail to accurately describe behaviour under such extreme conditions.
His work details the observation of half-quantum vortices – topological defects possessing half the angular momentum of conventional vortices – and the behaviour of walls bounded by strings, both novel structures within superfluids. The controlled formation of vortices during non-adiabatic phase transitions allows for precise investigation of their properties and interactions, providing valuable data for theoretical modelling. These findings contribute to a more complete understanding of the complex interplay between topology and quantum mechanics in condensed matter systems.
The implications of this research extend to the field of high-temperature superconductivity, where the behaviour of quantum vortices is believed to play a critical role. Understanding how these vortices form, move, and interact within superconducting materials is essential for optimising their performance and developing new applications. His current involvement with the SuperC collaboration demonstrates a continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of this field and addressing a major challenge in materials science.
Dr Mäkinen’s Career and Future Research Goals
Dr. Jere Mäkinen’s career trajectory demonstrates a consistent dedication to low-temperature physics, building expertise in experimental techniques at ultra-cold temperatures. This sustained focus has allowed him to develop a deep understanding of complex quantum phenomena and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of scientific knowledge. The award acknowledges not only completed research but also the potential for future contributions within the field, recognising his promise as a leading researcher.
Currently, Mäkinen’s research is integrated within the SuperC collaboration, an international initiative with the ambitious goal of discovering room-temperature superconductivity by 2033. This collaborative effort leverages diverse expertise and resources, positioning Mäkinen to contribute to a potentially transformative area of materials science. The pursuit of room-temperature superconductivity represents a major challenge, requiring innovative approaches to material design and characterisation, and a collaborative spirit.
Beyond the laboratory, Mäkinen actively promotes scientific literacy through outreach activities, fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry. Recognition with the Aalto University Research Impact Award and participation in the Lindau Nobel Laureate meeting highlight his commitment to communicating complex scientific concepts to a broader audience. This engagement with public understanding of science complements his research endeavours, ensuring that scientific advancements benefit society as a whole.
Mäkinen’s career began with undergraduate studies at Aalto University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Yale University, and now continues as a Research Fellow at Aalto University. He actively participates in the SuperC collaboration, demonstrating a commitment to collaborative research.
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