John J. Hopfield of Princeton University and Geoffrey E. Hinton of the University of Toronto were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics on Tuesday for their groundbreaking work in machine learning. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences recognized the scientists for developing artificial neural networks capable of recognizing patterns in large data sets, laying the foundation for modern AI applications like facial recognition and language translation.
Hopfield, 91, created an associative memory system for storing and reconstructing data patterns. Hinton, 76, invented a method for autonomous data property identification. “This year’s physics laureates’ breakthroughs stand on the foundations of physical science,” the Nobel Committee stated. “They have shown a completely new way for us to use computers to tackle many of society’s challenges.” The laureates will share the 11 million Swedish kronor ($1.1 million) prize.
