Three winners have been awarded the 2026 Physics Image Award at Leiden University for capturing microscopic phenomena that bridge the gap between complex data and visual art. The winning entries—a platinum-coated microscope tip, a protein-based fibrin network, and a historic ceramic glaze—were selected by a jury for their ability to translate nanostructures and physical processes into accessible, striking imagery.
How do failed experiments lead to scientific breakthroughs?
Physics research often relies on “failing forward,” a process where unexpected results provide as much data as successful ones. Ben Schellevis, a BSc Physics student, demonstrated this with his winning image, “Annealed Pt on an AFM Tip.”
Schellevis, from the research group of Semonti Bhattacharyya and the AFM lab led by Federica Galli, intended to create a strong conductive surface on a microscope tip. Instead, after heating, the platinum formed tiny islands. According to the jury, the texture of this pattern serves as a reminder that science often produces beauty in the wake of unintended outcomes. The bright yellow coloring of the scan highlighted the structural anomaly, turning a technical result into a prize-winning visual.
The Physics Image Award is an annual competition at Leiden University that invites researchers to share the most striking images from their work, proving that physics is more than just numbers and equations.
What can protein networks reveal about biological processes?
The intersection of physics and biology is visible at the microscopic scale. Ali Sentissi, from the research group of Louise Jawerth, captured “PGL-3 Condensates in a Fibrin Network,” an image showing protein droplets embedded in a fibrin network.
Fibrin is a protein that plays a crucial role in wound healing, and the orange droplets are proteins that separated into tiny condensates. The image demonstrates phase separation and self-organisation. Jury members described the result as a “cosmic web” or a galaxy, illustrating how complex physical laws govern biological structures. This research highlights how scientists use imaging to visualize the universe of structure existing at the protein level.
How does historical research influence modern physics?
The third winner, Tessa van der Ent from the research group of Michiel de Dood, highlights the “cat’s eye effect” found in historical Delft ceramics. By investigating a century-old glaze, the researcher bridged the gap between historical craftsmanship and optical physics.
The jury praised the image for its symmetry and hypnotic quality. Beyond its artistic appeal, the work explores the scientific mystery behind the glaze. The project underscores a growing trend in research: using modern imaging techniques to decode the material science secrets hidden in historical artifacts.
Pro Tip: The Power of Visualization
For students and researchers, documenting experiments can often lead to unexpected discoveries. High-resolution imaging is a tool for uncovering patterns that remain invisible to the human eye, turning technical data into valuable visual communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Physics Image Award?
It is an annual competition at Leiden University where researchers submit striking images from their work to highlight the beauty behind physics research. - How are the winners chosen?
The jury adds up scores to choose the winners. An audience award is also voted on during the ceremony. - Where can I see the winning images?
The winning photo is placed on the Physics Wall of Fame.
Are you interested in the intersection of art and science? Explore more research highlights from the Leiden Physics department or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest breakthroughs in material science and biophysics.
