Winner: 2024 Centenary Prizes for Chemistry and Communication
Nicholas Kotov
University of Michigan
For innovative studies and applications of complex self-assembling nanosystems, and for excellence in communication.
Professor Kotov’s research has advanced our understanding of self-assembly in nanomaterials (tiny building blocks). He has revealed that small, randomly shaped and easily accessible nanomaterials (building blocks) can self-assemble into useful materials regardless of their shape and size. He has also shown that these imperfectly shaped nanostructures actually help, rather than hinder, the self-assembly process and result in nanocomposites that are stronger and more conductive. Their structure is similar to bone, shells, cartilage and other biological materials. These self-assembling, multifunctional composites are used in environmental, health, energy, and green chemical technologies. The socioeconomic impact of nanocomposites from imperfect nanoparticles inspired by Professor Kotov’s work can be conservatively estimated at $19B for 2019–2022 (BCC Publishing, 2018, NAN021H; BCC Publishing, AVM202A 2020).
Biography
Nicholas A Kotov is Irving Langmuir Distinguished University Professor in Chemical Sciences at the University of Michigan. He is a pioneer in the theoretical foundations and practical implementations of complex systems from ‘imperfect’ nanoparticles. His current work focuses on chiral nanostructures, biomimetic nanocomposites from one- and two-dimensional materials, and graph theoretical representations. Professor Kotov has received more than 60 awards and recognitions, including the UNESCO Medal, MRS Medal, and Chirality Medal. Together with his students, Nicholas founded several startups that commercialised self-assembled nanostructures for the energy, healthcare and automotive industries. Nicholas is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the National Academy of Inventors. He is a committed advocate of scientists with disabilities – visible and invisible.
Q&A with Professor Nicholas Kotov
How did you first become interested in chemistry?
Chemistry, biology, and geology were my first passions. I became interested in chemistry perhaps since I was 5–6 years old when I saw on my parents' nightstand a book Electron Paramagnetic Resonance of Free Radicals.
Tell us about somebody who has inspired or mentored you in your career.
Definitely my mother. We carried out a lot of chemistry experiments together, and she even took me to her lab several times during my teenage years.
What motivates you?
I really enjoy "Aha!" moments. They are the great source of endorphins preceding a bit of struggle and pain.
Can you tell us about a scientific development on the horizon that you are excited about?
I am really interested to see forms of extraterrestrial life. We will find it and I hope to be long enough around to learn about it more.
Why is chemistry important?
Chemistry is an important bridge between everything very very small and very very large.
Why do you think collaboration and teamwork are important in science?
I like to collaborate because it is mutually enriching. Can be hard, too, but, true collaborations are always highly impactful.
What is your favourite element?
Iodine! It is an amazing example of a non-metal becoming almost metallic. Being an antiseptic, it saved a lot of lives. It is also quite beautiful due to its deep purple color with various hues. Of course, every chemistry nerd knows about nitrogen iodide. It was a lot of fun when I was a kid.
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Thank you to everybody who took the time to make a nomination this year, and to all of our volunteers on our judging panels.
