The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to John J. Hopfield and Geoffrey E. Hinton for their development of artificial neural networks, which form the foundation of modern machine learning. Hopfield applied principles of physics to create networks capable of accurately storing and recalling incomplete data, while Hinton developed the Boltzmann Machine, enabling networks to autonomously learn and classify data, leading to the rise of deep learning widely used in artificial intelligence. This discovery has significantly advanced technologies such as image recognition, large-scale data analysis, and language translation. Moreover, neural networks have benefited physics in areas like the discovery of the Higgs particle, reducing noise in gravitational wave data, and exoplanet detection. To provide an opportunity for students and faculty to learn about these innovations, the Physics Department is hosting a special lecture featuring experts in physics and artificial intelligence who will share their knowledge and the latest advancements in neural network technology.
