Kitagawa, Robson, and Yaghi Honored with Nobel Prize in Chemistry

The Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson, and Omar M. Yaghi for their significant contributions to the development of metal organic frameworks (MOFs). This innovative class of materials holds great promise for addressing critical global issues, including carbon capture and plastic pollution. The announcement was made by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences during a news conference in Stockholm, Sweden, on October 4, 2023.

The trio’s pioneering research has been described as a breakthrough in “molecular architecture,” creating avenues for new applications in environmental protection and clean energy. Each recipient will share a prize of 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately £872,000), a recognition of their collaborative efforts in advancing the field.

Following the announcement, Professor Kitagawa, who is affiliated with Kyoto University in Japan, expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m deeply honoured and delighted, thank you very much.” He added humorously, “How long do I have to stay here? Because I have to go out for a meeting.”

The research conducted by the laureates involves the assembly of molecules into porous frameworks, resulting in structures with remarkably large internal spaces. These cavities have the ability to trap gases such as carbon dioxide, filter pollutants, and separate chemicals, which positions MOFs as vital tools in tackling environmental challenges.

The Nobel committee highlighted their achievement as “a triumph in molecular design that enables humanity to manipulate matter at the atomic level for a sustainable future.” This recognition underscores the potential of MOFs to contribute to innovative solutions for pressing issues, including climate change and pollution.

This year’s Chemistry Nobel follows the Physics Prize awarded on October 3, 2023, to John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret, and John M. Martinis for their advancements in quantum mechanics. On October 2, 2023, the Nobel Prize in Medicine was awarded to three scientists for their discoveries related to the immune system’s response to infections.

The announcements for the 2025 Nobel Prizes will continue throughout the week, culminating with the Peace Prize on October 6, 2023, and concluding with the Economics Prize on October 9, 2023. The ongoing recognition of these scientific achievements reflects the vital role of research in shaping a sustainable future.