We are thrilled to share that John Jumper, a graduate of Pulaski Academy’s Class of 2003, has been awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences! This prestigious honor recognizes John’s pivotal role in developing AlphaFold2, an AI-based system that has solved the decades-long challenge of predicting protein structures. As co-inventors of the AlphaFold system, released by Google DeepMind, Jumper shares this prestigious award with Demis Hassabis. The prize is also shared with Prof. David Baker of the University of Washington “for computational protein design.” 

Image credit: Google DeepMind (London, England) 

John Jumper's academic journey began at Pulaski Academy as a freshman in Upper School, where his passion for learning was evident. In addition to his involvement in the Science and Engineering Club, Chess Club, and PA’s award-winning Model United Nations Program, John also played on the soccer team, rounding out his academic pursuits with athletic interests. During his senior year, he was a student in Bill Topich’s inaugural Honors Thesis Class, where he wrote an insightful thesis titled, “A Model for Rogue States.” Throughout his time at PA, John took every AP and Honors course available, excelling in all levels of physics, chemistry, biology, math, and social science.

After graduating from Pulaski Academy, John continued his academic career at Vanderbilt University, followed by earning an MPhil in theoretical condensed matter physics at the University of Cambridge. He then pursued and completed his PhD in Theoretical Chemistry at the University of Chicago, laying the foundation for his groundbreaking contributions to computational chemistry.

“We are incredibly proud of John and his remarkable journey since his time at Pulaski Academy,” said Garry Sullivan, Head of School at Pulaski Academy. “His curiosity and commitment to excellence, which were evident during his upper school years, have led to transformative achievements on a global scale. We are honored to count him as one of our own.”

John Jumper’s work through AlphaFold has made a profound impact on our understanding of biological systems, helping to unlock the mysteries of life on a molecular level. His achievements reflect the intellectual excellence and leadership that Pulaski Academy strives to instill in all its students. We celebrate this momentous occasion and look forward to seeing what the future holds for John and the impact he will continue to make in the scientific community!

To learn more about this award, visit the Nobel Prize website. 

About Pulaski Academy: Pulaski Academy is an independent, coeducational college-preparatory school located in Little Rock, Arkansas. Established in 1971, PA serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, offering a rigorous academic curriculum alongside a broad range of extracurricular programs. With a commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity, leadership, and community service, Pulaski Academy prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. PA is known for its inclusive and innovative environment, nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped to make a positive impact on the world.