The Young Academy of Norway (AYF) and the Letten Foundation is very pleased to have handed out the Letten Prize for the fourth time, this time to prof. Danielle Wood from MIT. Prof. Wood received the prize for her outstanding work using space technology to create meaningful change for people on Earth. Her research evaluates the diverse ways space technologies can contribute to addressing global development goals, ranging from drought to deforestation to food insecurity, and she has pioneered novel techniques for applying space data to these challenges. Her collaborations across Africa empower local young scientists and institutions to harness space-based insights while building long-term capacity through training and education. By combining her expertise in systems engineering and aerospace with a commitment to sustainable development, Dr. Wood embodies the interdisciplinary and purpose-driven spirit of Letten Saugstad is and a highly deserving recipient of the Letten Prize.
At the Letten prize day we also celebrated prof. Paula Moraga, the 2023 laureate. Prof. Moraga was awarded the prize for her pioneering research ambitions towards early detection of epidemics and design of control strategies worldwide, through development of innovative and cost-efficient disease surveillance systems at finer spatial and temporal scales than currently available.
The Letten Prize Day 2025 was a great celebration of science in an uncertain world. In honor of Letten Saugstad, the laureates research and projects will contribute to raise public awareness of how research can be used to solve global human development challenges.
Did you miss the celebrations? Have a look at our live stream that covers the events: