Ig Nobel 2026 honors quirky studies on soil, friendship and animal kisses

The annual Ig Nobel awards, known for honoring research that first amuses and then enlightens, took place in Zurich, marking the first non-U.S. venue in 36 years. Ten prizes were presented, ranging from a soil-science study that buried cotton underwear in more than 25 countries to measure decomposition rates, to a peace-prize paper by Keelan Williams of Hamilton College that explores why people appreciate friends who can be both supportive and ruthless.

Oxford evolutionary biologist Matilda Brindle received the biomechanics prize for crafting a strict definition of animal kissing, highlighting its relevance to reproductive and sexual evolution. The ceremony also recognized work on socioeconomic ethics, with North American economists exposing higher rates of petty crime among the upper class. Winners expressed delight at the recognition, emphasizing how seemingly frivolous topics can reveal deeper scientific principles.