Cecilia Jarlskog has been a professor of mathematical physics at Lund University since 1994 and conducts internationally renowned research in theoretical particle physics. She has immersed herself in CP symmetry, which deals with how particles and antiparticles mirror each other and behave during certain transformations. When symmetry is broken, it can provide clues as to why the universe contains more matter than antimatter. Her most famous contribution, the Jarlskog invariant, is now used as an important measure of how strongly this symmetry is broken.
In addition to her research, Jarlskog has influenced and led the international research community. She was chair of the Nobel Committee for Physics from 1989 to 2000 and was active at CERN for many years, including as a member of the Scientific Policy Committee and as an advisor to the organisation's director.
By awarding her the silver medal, Lund University wishes to recognise a researcher who is profoundly shaping her field and at the same time strengthening the university's international standing. The medal will be presented at the university's annual ceremony on 23 January 2026.