New Chemistry Chair honours legacy of Professor Richard Robson
University of Melbourne Professor Paul Donnelly has been awarded the inaugural Richard Robson Chair of Chemistry, in recognition of his pioneering research and leadership in fundamental discovery-based chemistry and its clinical translation to benefit society.
The Chair is named after University of Melbourne Professor Richard Robson, who, starting in the 90s, created a new class of molecular materials known as coordination polymers – now sometimes referred to as metal-organic frameworks.
His groundbreaking work inspired an entirely new field of chemistry which has revolutionised the way chemistry is done in industry and in academic settings across the globe.
Dean of Science, Professor Moira O’Bryan, said the Chair is in honour of Professor Robson’s remarkable contributions to chemistry, the University and the Australian research sector.
“In delivering University’s mission of research and teaching excellence, we have been fortunate to work with some exceptional people. This includes Professor Richard Robson,” Professor O’Bryan said.
“Right here at the School of Chemistry, Richard laid the groundwork for an entire field of chemistry. It is a field that has revolutionised materials in areas as diverse as catalysis, gas storage and separation, capture of pollutants, magnetism, ion exchange, water adsorption and ionic and electrical conductivity.
“This chair is bestowed upon a Professor of Chemistry within the Faculty of Science with the skills and personal leadership to emulate the groundbreaking work delivered by Richard and his team.”
As the inaugural Richard Robson Chair of Chemistry, Professor Donnelly’s research expertise spans inorganic and biological chemistry with a focus on smart therapies and targeted diagnostic imaging.
Professor Donnelly’s pioneering research includes major contributions in metal-based imaging and therapeutic agents for diagnosis and therapy of cancer, metal complexes for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and as a potential treatment for neurodegenerative disease.
“It is an honour to be named in this position that celebrates the pioneering work of Professor Robson,” Professor Donnelly said.
“This award will greatly facilitate my research into designing new molecules with potential applications in biology and to continue to work with outstanding colleagues, and students.”
University of Melbourne Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Mark Cassidy, said the Richard Robson Chair of Chemistry will provide academic leadership in the discipline of chemistry, a significant field which underpins many other scientific disciplines.
“The University of Melbourne is thrilled to honour the expertise within the School of Chemistry and to highlight the important role chemistry plays in society,” Professor Cassidy said “As the inaugural Richard Robson Chair of Chemistry, Professor Donnelly will continue his outstanding contributions to research and teaching excellence and to help train and support the next generation of chemists.”
Professor Paul Donnelly will commence the role as Richard Robson Chair of Chemistry in January 2025.