Award Criteria
Excellence at the Intersection of Mathematics and Engineering
The Leonardo Da Vinci Medal honors individuals whose work exemplifies the Renaissance ideal: the seamless integration of rigorous mathematical thinking with innovative engineering practice, combining analytical depth with creative problem-solving.
Four Pillars of Excellence
Each laureate demonstrates mastery across these fundamental dimensions
Mathematical Excellence
Outstanding application of mathematical theory to solve real-world engineering challenges. The work must demonstrate:
- ●Deep understanding of mathematical principles
- ●Rigorous analytical methods
- ●Novel mathematical approaches to engineering problems
- ●Development of new mathematical tools or methods
Creative Engineering
Innovative solutions that demonstrate exceptional technical ingenuity and originality. The work should exhibit:
- ●Inventive problem-solving approaches
- ●Fresh perspectives on technical challenges
- ●Elegant and practical engineering solutions
- ●Breakthrough thinking in design or implementation
Technical Impact
Work that advances the field and creates lasting value for engineering practice. Impact is demonstrated through:
- ●Contributions that advance engineering knowledge
- ●Practical applications with real-world significance
- ●Influence on industry practices or standards
- ●Long-term relevance and sustainability
Interdisciplinary Thinking
The ability to bridge multiple domains and integrate diverse perspectives. This includes:
- ●Synthesis of knowledge from multiple fields
- ●Cross-disciplinary collaboration and integration
- ●Holistic approaches to complex problems
- ●Connections between theory and practice
Evaluation Philosophy
How we assess contributions and recognize true excellence
◆Quality Over Quantity
The Medal recognizes depth of contribution rather than volume of publications. A single transformative work carries more weight than numerous incremental advances. We value work that fundamentally changes how engineers think about and approach problems.
◆Timeless Relevance
While we appreciate cutting-edge innovation, we prioritize work with lasting significance. The best contributions stand the test of time, remaining relevant and influential long after their initial publication. Historical laureates like Poincaré, Hilbert, and Cartan exemplify this enduring impact.
◆Mathematical Foundations
True to the Prize's origins, mathematical rigor remains central. We seek work where mathematics isn't merely a tool but a fundamental driver of engineering innovation. The best contributions reveal how mathematical insight can unlock engineering breakthroughs that would be impossible through empirical approaches alone.
◆European Academic Values
The Medal embodies European traditions of scholarly excellence, intellectual rigor, and the integration of theoretical and practical knowledge. We value work that demonstrates both academic depth and real-world relevance, bridging the gap between university research and engineering practice.
Selection Process
A rigorous, collaborative approach ensuring the highest standards
The Leonardo Da Vinci Medal is administered collectively by the five universities of the IDEA League, ensuring academic rigor and institutional balance.
Candidates proposed by faculty from member universities
Peer review by expert committees from all five universities
Collective decision through consensus among universities
The host university rotates annually among the five IDEA League members, with each institution taking responsibility for organizing the award ceremony in February. This rotating framework ensures equal representation and maintains the Medal's pan-European character.
"The selection process prioritizes scholarly consensus over individual preferences, ensuring that every laureate represents a shared commitment to excellence across Europe's leading technical universities."
Explore the Legacy
Discover the historic lineage of laureates and learn about the universities behind this award