[Nobel Week] Nobel Prize in Chemistry Lectures Held in Stockholm

On December 8, the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry lectures were held at the Stockholm University campus in Sweden. The event featured iCeMS' Distinguished Professor Susumu Kitagawa, Professor Richard Robson of the University of Melbourne, and Professor Omar Yaghi of the University of California, Berkeley. Each speaker shared their unique perspectives on the history and future prospects of Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) research.

The lectures proceeded in the order of Professor Robson, Professor Kitagawa, and Professor Yaghi. Professor Robson reflected on the evolution of coordination polymer research from its early stages to the present. He highlighted how the concept of designing molecular structures became the fundamental basis for MOF research.

Professor Kitagawa then discussed his academic background and the various transitions throughout his research career. He described how his study of coordination compounds, which did not initially have clear practical applications, eventually led to significant breakthroughs in porous materials. He used the phrase "The Usefulness of the Useless" to illustrate how research that appears indirect or impractical can later result in vital new concepts.

Building on these foundations, Professor Kitagawa challenged the traditional view of crystals as static entities. He expanded his work into dynamic porous materials that change their structure in response to external stimuli. He explained the development of "Soft Porous Crystals", which are materials that behave flexibly while maintaining a crystalline structure, such as those that open and close when capturing gas molecules. These materials were introduced as a means to unlock new possibilities for safe gas storage and efficient gas separation.

Following this, Professor Yaghi introduced initiatives aimed at connecting MOF research to society. He discussed the current expansion of fundamental research into industry and real-world applications, including new developments that utilize AI.

Throughout the session, the three speakers referenced each other’s work, demonstrating how the field of MOF research has flourished through diverse experimentation and continuous dialogue. A warm and collegial atmosphere remained present in the venue until the conclusion of the lectures.