The Early Career Award is received by twelve young researchers – three from each of the Academy’s science domains. The prize is awarded annually for outstanding achievement. The prize consists of a sum of EUR 15,000 and a unique work of art. The award is intended for researchers in the Netherlands at the beginning of their careers and who have innovative, original ideas. The Academy Early Career Awards were presented during a celebratory event at the Trippenhuis complex on 15 February 2024.
The committee awarded the prize to Charlotte for her work combining feminist philosophy with existentialism and phenomenology, focusing on deep-seated issues in gender dynamics. Why do women sometimes vote for politicians who hold misogynist views? Why do they participate in activities that emphasise their submissive role? Knowles employs existential and phenomenological perspectives to examine the very core of such questions, which centre around notions of freedom and autonomy – but also fear of the same. Her work produces innovative and productive insights that offer a better understanding of the ‘complicity’ of women in gender issues.