The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has honored notable chemists Martyn Poliakoff from the University of Nottingham and Richard Catlow from University College London and Cardiff University with the esteemed David and Betty Hamburg Award for Science Diplomacy. Their consecutive terms as foreign secretary of the Royal Society from 2011 to 2016 and 2016 to 2021, respectively, facilitated remarkable progress in international scientific partnerships. These efforts included building relationships between scientists from North Korea, Britain, and the US, improving local and regional research capabilities in sub-Saharan Africa, assisting early-career researchers in nations such as China, Cuba, and Ukraine, and reinforcing European scientific collaborations in the aftermath of Brexit. Chemistry World spoke with these distinguished chemists during the recent AAAS annual conference in Phoenix, Arizona, where they received their awards.
**Profiles and Contributions**:
Richard Catlow is celebrated for his contributions to computational materials chemistry, closely linking it with experimental work, particularly at synchrotron and neutron facilities. His research interests cover a wide range of systems and materials vital for renewable energy and catalysis, especially in the advancement of low-carbon technologies. Martyn Poliakoff is a leading figure in green chemistry, pioneering the application of supercritical fluids and flow chemistry to promote sustainability by decreasing dependence on traditional organic solvents. Although acknowledged for his scientific achievements, Poliakoff has engaged global audiences through “The Periodic Table of Videos” YouTube series.
**The Importance of Scientific Diplomacy**:
Richard Catlow highlights the growing complexity and necessity of scientific diplomacy, noting the stark differences between the cooperative scientific efforts during the Cold War and today’s challenges. Martyn Poliakoff reflects on urgent global scientific issues like climate change and global warming that surpass national boundaries, emphasizing the impracticality of a single-nation solution.
**Focus on Sustainability**:
Poliakoff points out the substantial increase in global population and the urgent need for sustainable chemical practices. He proposes “Moore’s law for chemistry,” advocating for a reduction of starting materials and chemicals by 50% in the quest for sustainable production techniques. Both Catlow and Poliakoff are involved in UKRI’s Great British Chemicals initiative, aiming to steer the UK chemical industry away from fossil fuels. Furthermore, Catlow is active in the UK Catalysis Hub, concentrating on catalysis for sustainability and achieving net-zero goals.
**Experiences as Royal Society Foreign Secretaries**:
In their respective positions, both chemists were charged with representing UK science across various disciplines, offering an impartial perspective for enhancing international scientific relationships. They also connected with global audiences through research presentations and public lectures, inspiring curiosity in chemistry among young students internationally.
**Learning from the AAAS Meeting**:
Richard Catlow comments on the obstacles faced by the US scientific community, which is struggling due to administrative resistance and funding limitations. Martyn Poliakoff observes similar financial challenges in the UK that jeopardize the future of chemistry education and the industry.
**Impact of UK Immigration Policies**:
Both scientists voice their worries regarding the UK’s immigration policies, which have markedly decreased the arrival of talented European students and researchers following Brexit. This situation is particularly detrimental for chemistry departments, where PhD students play a vital role in research and laboratory instruction.
**Future Directions**:
Looking towards the future, Catlow envisions developments in computational modeling, aiming for enhanced predictive capabilities and greater international collaborations, especially in Africa and with China. Poliakoff aspires to empower African scientists by providing opportunities for them to identify and devise solutions to their unique regional challenges. They also underscore the essential role of technicians in advancing global chemical initiatives.
**Advice to Emerging Chemists**:
Both share a message of hope, encouraging young chemists to recognize the discipline’s potential in solving global issues and promoting the creation of innovative solutions. Poliakoff additionally emphasizes the increased enjoyment in contemporary chemistry owing to technological advancements that have eliminated many repetitive tasks.