20 February 2026
The University of Tokyo Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe (Kavli IPMU, WPI)
The University of Tokyo Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe (Kavli IPMI, WPI) Project Assistant Professor Elisa Ferreira has been named one of the recipients of the 7th Fumiko Yonezawa Memorial Award, it was announced by the Physical Society of Japan.
The Fumiko Yonezawa Memorial Award was established in 2019, and commemorates the achievements of theoretical physicist Fumiko Yonezawa, the first woman president of the Physical Society of Japan, and a founding member of the Department of Physics at Keio University. The award honors and encourages studies and activities of female members of the society.
Ferreira is being recognized for her work in “probing the particle physics of the dark sector of the universe through astrophysical observations.”
While researchers are sure of the existence of dark matter and dark energy from observations of the universe, the exact nature of both remains a mystery. Dark matter and dark energy have played a significant role in shaping the universe, and setting the course for its future evolution. Over the years, countless theories have come up to explain their identity.
Ferreira’s research has focused on ultra-light dark matter, axions, and the phenomenology of dark matter.
“The search for the dark sector is not only a central scientific challenge, but also a powerful expression of human curiosity about where we come from and what the Universe is made of,” said Ferreira.
The Physical Society of Japan commended Ferreira’s work in creating a framework to connect theory with observation, specifically the astronomical effects of the very light dark matter of the order of less than 10-21eV. She helped develop new observational methods and analytical methods to study phenomena including dwarf galaxies and gravitational lensing to create a link between particle physics and astronomy.
“I am truly honored to receive the Fumiko Yonezawa Memorial Prize from the Physical Society of Japan. This award is deeply meaningful to me, as it reflects not only my research but also my long-term commitment to strengthening science in Japan through scientific leadership and mentorship. Having chosen to build my career in Japan, it is especially meaningful to be recognized by the Japanese physics community. I am grateful to the JPS, and I am proud to work Kavli IPMU, whose outstanding, diverse, and international research environment makes it possible to pursue ambitious scientific questions. I am also grateful for the support of my family and mentors, and for the encouragement I have received from the Kavli IPMU leadership and my colleagues.
“This prize carries special meaning given Professor Yonezawa’s legacy and the importance of supporting excellence and diversity in physics.
“I hope this award can be a positive signal for the next generation of scientists, and especially for young women who may be considering a future in physics. Making science more accessible and building an inclusive research culture is one of my main goals, and I hope this recognition encourages more young researchers to pursue physics with confidence and ambition,” said Ferreira.
Ferreira’s theoretical modeling and statistical analysis methods will continue to be improved, paving the way for researchers to understand cosmological tension, an area studied by researchers in Japan and overseas.
An award ceremony will be held during the Physical Society of Japan’s Annual Meeting in September 2026.
Related link
Full list of award recipients (Physical Society of Japan)
Related article
Miho Katsuragawa awarded 2025 Fumiko Yonezawa Memorial Award (February 26, 2025)
