Chemistry Nobel Award Recognizes 3 Scientists for Groundbreaking Research on MOF Structures

The Nobel Prize in Chemistry goes to three distinguished scientists for their influential work on metal-organic frameworks.

Their investigations could be applied to address some of the major planetary issues, including CO2 capture to address environmental shifts or minimizing synthetic debris through sophisticated chemistry.

“It’s a profound honor and pleasure, thank you,” remarked Prof. Kitagawa during a telephone conversation to the press briefing following hearing the news.

“What’s the duration I need to remain? I have an appointment to attend,” Professor Kitagawa continued.

These three recipients receive award funds amounting to 11 mln SEK (about £872k).

Molecular Architecture on a Core of the Breakthrough

Their scientists' work centers around how molecules are built collectively into complex networks. The Nobel committee termed it “structural molecular engineering”.

These experts developed techniques to construct frameworks with large spaces amid the units, enabling various substances to pass through them.

These materials are referred to as metal-organic frameworks.

This declaration was presented by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences during a news conference in Stockholm.

Prof. Kitagawa works at the University of Kyoto in Japan, Prof. Robson is at the Melbourne University in Australia, and Prof. Yaghi is at the California University in the US.

Previous Nobel Winners in Scientific Fields

During the prior award cycle, three other scientists won the prize for their work on protein structures, which are critical components of biological systems.

It is the 3rd scientific recognition given in the current week. On Tuesday, John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret and John M. Martinis received the Nobel Prize in Physics for their contributions on subatomic physics that enabled the development of the quantum processor.

At the start of the week, 3 experts' investigations on how the immune system targets pathogens earned them the honor for medicine.

One winner, Dr. Ramsdell, was unaware of the news for 20 hours because he was on an off-grid hiking trip.