“Do Not Be Afraid of New Things”: Prof. Michele Parrinello on Scientific Curiosity and the Importance of Fundamental Research

In atomic and molecular simulation, researchers have long-needed efficient ways to predict material properties in order to focus on the most promising real laboratory tests instead of redundant work. Addressing this challenge, Prof. Michele Parrinello introduced two transformative methods that have redefined the field: the Car–Parrinello method, which serves as a “virtual lab” for studying reactions and electronic properties, and the Parrinello–Rahman method, a cornerstone for crystal phase transition studies. His work has reshaped the way that we study atomic systems, earning him the status of one of the most cited scholars in his field.

To honor his enduring legacy and continued impact, MDPI has established the Michele Parrinello Award. This award celebrates innovation and recognizes senior scientists who have made outstanding contributions to computational physical sciences, spanning the fields of physics, chemistry, and materials science.

We had the great honor of speaking with Prof. Parrinello in an exclusive interview, where he shared his perspectives on his current research focus, personal scientific experiences, support for basic research, and his advice for global researchers.