Atanu Nath, Assistant Professor of Physics at Tihu College (Nalbari district, Assam), has been awarded 2026 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, often referred to as “Oscars of Science.” He is part of an international collaboration of 376 scientists recognised for their work on the Muon g−2 experiment, conducted at leading global research institutions including CERN, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and Fermilab.
Notably, he is the only Indian awardee currently living and working in India, making his recognition particularly significant for regional academia and scientific research in the Northeast.
Profile of Dr. Atanu Nath
- He Hails from Lalabazar in Hailakandi district, Assam and currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at Tihu College.
- Among approximately 11 Indian scientists sharing the honour. His journey from a small town in Assam to global particle physics research highlights the growing contribution of Indian academia to international science.
- Felicitated by his institution with traditional Assamese honour (phulam gamocha), reflecting regional pride in his achievement.
Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics
- It is one of the world’s most prestigious science awards, popularly called the “Oscars of Science.”
- Recognises major advances in fundamental physics, including particle physics, cosmology, and quantum mechanics.
- Awarded to individuals or large collaborations contributing to cutting-edge scientific discoveries.
Muon g−2 Experiment: Core Concept
The award recognises contributions to the Muon g−2 experiment, which studies a fundamental property of the muon.
- The muon is an elementary particle similar to the electron but about 200 times heavier. Like electrons, muons behave like tiny magnets.
- Scientists measure the “anomalous magnetic moment” (g−2), which indicates how the muon’s magnetic strength changes due to interactions with other particles and forces.
Scientific Method and Evolution of Experiment
- Muons are circulated in large storage rings under strong magnetic fields.
- Their “wobble” (precession) is measured to determine g−2 with extreme precision.
Timeline of Experiment Development
- 1960s–70s: Initial experiments conducted at CERN.
- 1990s: Improved precision at Brookhaven National Laboratory.
- 2013: Brookhaven’s 50-ton storage ring transported to Fermilab for advanced experimentation.
- Latest Phase: Achieved precision of about 127 parts per billion, making it one of the most precise experiments in physics.
Scientific Significance
- Even minute deviations between experimental results and theoretical predictions could indicate new physics beyond the Standard Model.
- The Standard Model of Particle Physics currently explains the behaviour of fundamental particles but is considered incomplete.
- Earlier results suggested discrepancies, hinting at unknown particles or forces.
- Recent theoretical updates have reduced the gap, but further research is ongoing to confirm the anomaly.
Importance of Collaboration
- The Muon g−2 experiment represents a large-scale international scientific collaboration, involving hundreds of scientists and multiple institutions.
- Demonstrates the importance of global cooperation in high-energy physics research.
- Indian scientists, though fewer in number, have made significant contributions to this global effort.
Broader Significance for India
- Highlights India’s participation in frontier scientific research.
- Strengthens the role of regional institutions like Tihu College in global academia.
- Inspires students and researchers, especially from Northeast India, to pursue advanced scientific careers.
Key Facts
- Muon: A lepton (like electron) but heavier; unstable with short lifespan.
- Standard Model: Framework explaining fundamental particles and forces (except gravity).
- CERN: World’s largest particle physics laboratory located in Switzerland.
- Fermilab: Leading US particle physics lab known for accelerator-based experiments.