A teenage science prodigy from Belgium who got his doctorate in quantum physics at the age of 15, is heading to Israel to be a researcher at Bar-Ilan University.
Laurent Simons, 16, from Ostend, finished primary school by the age of six, secondary school by eight, his degree by 11, his masters by 12 and his PhD at 15.
He studied electrical engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands before moving to the University of Antwerp to pursue physics.
In 2026 he co-authored a research paper published in science journal Nature.
He is currently doing a degree in medical science and it is his ambition to find a way to extend life.
Simons, who isn’t Jewish, is reported to have a good relationship with the Israeli Embassy in Belgium and, last week, he was hosted at Israeli ambassador David Saranga’s home ahead of his upcoming move.
Saranga said: “Contrary to the impression that has been created, Israel has many friends in Belgium. They come from all parts of society, different religions, backgrounds and age groups.
“One of them is Laurent Simons. These are voices that are also important to recognise and make heard.”
Describing Simons’ move, he said: “It's a combination of genuine love for Israel and admiration for scientific research.”
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