Chemist Returns Michael Faraday Prize to Protest Royal Society's Inaction Against Elon Musk

On June 10, 2025, Professor Andrea Sella, a chemist at University College London and recipient of the Royal Society's 2014 Michael Faraday Prize, returned his award in protest against the society's inaction regarding Elon Musk's alleged attacks on science. Sella criticized the Royal Society for not censuring Musk, a fellow of the academy, despite Musk's role in significant funding cuts to U.S. scientific institutions and personal attacks on figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci.

Sella's decision underscores a growing rift within the scientific community over the Royal Society's handling of Musk. Critics argue that Musk's actions, including overseeing substantial funding reductions to U.S. scientific institutions and making personal attacks on prominent scientists such as Dr. Anthony Fauci, warrant censure. The society's reluctance to take disciplinary action, citing concerns about political neutrality, has led to resignations and widespread dissent among scientists.

Andrea Sella is renowned for his contributions to chemistry and science communication. The Michael Faraday Prize, awarded by the Royal Society, honors individuals who excel in communicating science to the public. Sella received this accolade in 2014 for his outstanding efforts in making complex scientific concepts accessible.

Elon Musk, elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2018, has faced criticism for actions perceived as detrimental to science. These include overseeing significant funding cuts to U.S. scientific institutions and making personal attacks on prominent scientists like Dr. Anthony Fauci. In March 2025, the Royal Society stated it would refrain from disciplinary action against Musk, emphasizing the importance of maintaining political neutrality.

Sella's decision was influenced by a lecture from Salim Abdool Karim, the 2024 Faraday Prize winner and an epidemiologist known for combating health disinformation. Inspired by Karim's work, Sella pledged the adjusted prize money to CAPRISA, the HIV/AIDS research organization co-founded by Karim.

Sella's protest adds to the growing dissent within the scientific community. Over 3,000 scientists have signed a letter criticizing the Royal Society's inaction, and two fellows, including Dorothy Bishop, have resigned in protest. The society acknowledged the seriousness of the issue but maintained discretion in handling Musk's case.

Andrea Sella stated, "I am appalled that the Royal Society should have stood by in silence." The Royal Society responded, "Professor Andrea Sella is an exemplary science communicator. The Royal Society greatly regrets his decision to return the 2014 Michael Faraday Prize."

This incident raises questions about the responsibilities of prestigious organizations like the Royal Society in upholding scientific standards and addressing members' controversial actions. The growing dissent highlights the importance of maintaining trust and credibility in scientific institutions, especially when influential figures are perceived to undermine scientific integrity.

Professor Andrea Sella's return of the Michael Faraday Prize serves as a significant statement against perceived inaction by the Royal Society concerning Elon Musk's alleged attacks on science. This act reflects broader concerns within the scientific community about the need for institutions to uphold their values and address actions that may undermine scientific integrity.