“Nobel Laureate Morten P. Meldal Inspires Students at IISER Thiruvananthapuram”
The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Thiruvananthapuram, recently welcomed Nobel laureate Morten P. Meldal as part of the Global Science Festival Kerala collaboration. Professor Meldal, renowned for his groundbreaking discovery of the ‘click reaction’ in 2001, graced the event with insights into his journey and the future of scientific exploration.
With a legacy that revolutionized the field of chemistry, Prof. Meldal’s discovery of the ‘click reaction’ has had far-reaching implications in various domains, including pharmaceuticals, materials chemistry, drug discovery, and biology. His seminal work earned him the prestigious Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2022, alongside K. Barry Sharpless and Carolyn R. Bertozzi.
Addressing an audience of nearly 1,500 students, Prof. Meldal shared anecdotes from his early years and the pivotal role nature played in sparking his interest in science. His journey from a curious child to a celebrated scientist serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance.
During his address, Prof. Meldal commended the world-class infrastructure and facilities at IISER Thiruvananthapuram, urging students to strive for excellence in their respective fields. As he inaugurated a lecture hall complex on the campus, he emphasized the importance of nurturing a conducive environment for academic and research pursuits.
Adding to the event’s significance, Prof. Meldal’s wife, Phaedria Marie St. Hilaire, shared her insights as a co-founder of Denmark-based Professional Women of Colour (ProWoc) and a staunch advocate for women’s rights. Her presence underscored the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the scientific community, inspiring students to embrace opportunities and challenge conventional norms.
The collaboration between IISER Thiruvananthapuram and the Global Science Festival Kerala provided a platform for students to engage with a luminary in the field of chemistry and glean valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of scientific exploration. As the legacy of Prof. Meldal continues to inspire future generations of scientists, his visit served as a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for the academic community.
