Kottapalli nominated for the Huibregtsen Prize 2025

Prof. Ajay Kottapalli of the University of Groningen has been nominated for the prestigious Huibregtsen Prize. The prize is awarded to a recent research project that combines scientific quality and innovation with exceptional social added value. With his nature-inspired sensors, Kottapalli is revolutionizing healthcare.

A total of six scientists have been nominated by the board of the Science & Society Evening Foundation from 28 nominations. The award ceremony will take place on October 16 in Leiden.

Innovation through super-sensitive sensors

For five years, Kottapalli studied seal whiskers in collaboration with the Pieterburen Seal Center. By detecting small variations in water flow, they enable seals to ‘detect’ fish at a distance of up to 180 meters and even ‘see around corners’. Thanks in part to an ERC starting grant, insights into the shape and function of the whiskers led to the development of super-sensitive biosensors that help underwater robots move efficiently and detect objects. In addition, through the startup Sencilia, they delivered flow sensors that can measure the flow rate of infusions for incubator babies with unprecedented precision and are now being tested in hospitals.

From the jury report

The jury praises Kottapalli for his work: “What Kottapalli does is a brilliant example of how fundamental research leads to innovation with impact, and of fruitful collaboration with various social partners. In addition, he also inspires younger generations with his research, such as at the Lauwersoog World Heritage Center.”

The Huibregtsen Prize

The Huibregtsen Prize was established in 2005 by the board of the Science & Society Evening Foundation. The Huibregtsen Prize consists of a sculpture, ‘The Thinker’, by visual artist Wil van der Laan, a cash prize of €25,000 earmarked for research activities, and a workshop offered by the Lorentz Center in Leiden.

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