A Greek physicist has taken out this year’s Giuseppe Sciacca International Science Prize at the 16th World Volunteer Institution.

Dr Asimina Arvanitaki was recognised for distinguishing herself in the field of physics.

The 36-year-old is considered the ‘Greek Einstein’ and is on the cutting edge of research into supersymmetry, dark matter, and extra dimensions.

Last year The Stavros Niarchos Foundation and Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics launched an US$8 million partnership to fuel Dr Arvanitaki’s research, naming her as inaugural Stavros Niarchos Foundation Aristarchus Chair in Theoretical Physics at Perimeter Institute in Canada, the world’s largest theoretical physics research centre.

Dr Arvanitaki was awarded in a ceremony earlier this month at the Pontifical University of Urbaniana in Rome.

“We are delighted that for the third year, the Science Award is awarded to a Greek woman, Asimina Arvanitaki, who has excelled on the global stage of science and makes us proud,” said General Secretary of the International Giuseppe Sciacca Prize, Archaeologist Vicky Baffatakis.

The Giuseppe Sciacca International Awards were founded in 2001 and are a globally recognised institution that promotes principles of volunteering and solidarity.