The central science: using molecules to develop materials and medicine

Chemistry is often referred to as the central science, given its role in bridging the fundamental physical sciences with the applied and life sciences. That is not to say, however, that chemistry is just a middleman. By understanding molecular structure, properties and interactions, chemists have unique insight into the complex systems which underpin diverse areas – from biology to materials science – and can use this understanding to drive important advances. Furthermore, by employing the powerful ability to construct molecules, through state-of-the-art synthetic chemistry, chemists can define new approaches and invent new products from drugs and diagnostics, to dyes and devices.

Matthew Fuchter is a Professor of Chemistry at Imperial College London who has long been interested in harnessing the power of synthetic chemistry to impact molecular science in multiple scientific domains. During his inaugural lecture he will discuss his perspective of chemistry as a central science. Journeying through a career that has taken him from the discovery of experimental medicines, to the development of energy efficient electronic displays, he will give case studies from his work that showcase how scientific curiosity and chemical understanding can lead to useful ‘real world’ applications. And how, in turn, such applications promote the need for further understanding and innovation on the molecular scale.