Gerhard Ertl Lecture Award 2024 goes to Graham Hutchings

An honor for his achievements in the field of chemistry

Prof. Dr. Graham Hutchings, a distinguished figure in chemistry, has dedicated his career to the advancement of catalysis, focusing on the development of novel heterogeneous catalysts. His work, particularly on gold nanocrystals and gold palladium alloy catalysts, has revolutionized the approach to selective oxidation reactions. Hutchings' research has paved the way for the creation of catalysts that operate under mild conditions.

His career from a technical officer at ICI Petrochemicals to becoming the Regius Professor of Chemistry at Cardiff University is marked by numerous achievements and accolades, including being elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2009.

The Ertl Lecture Award, a tribute to the legacy of Gerhard Ertl, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry in 2007, is an annual accolade that highlights the exceptional work of researchers in the field of catalysis. Sponsored by BASF and established in 2008 by the three Berlin universities (Humboldt University, Technical University, and Free University) and the Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society, the award not only honors outstanding achievements but also fosters the exchange of innovative ideas in catalysis research. The 2024 laureate, Prof. Dr. Graham Hutchings CBE FREng FRS, embodies the spirit of this award through his groundbreaking contributions to the field.

The prize is awarded for the 17th time by a commission consisting of members of the Berlin universities - Joachim Sauer (HU Berlin), Matthias Drieß (TU Berlin) and Eckart Rühl (FU Berlin) - and the directors of the Fritz Haber Institute. Gerhard Ertl advises the commission on the selection of candidates.

The award ceremony as well as the award lecture and reception are scheduled for December 10, 2024. Graham Hutchings will give a lecture entitled „Catalysis using gold containing materials“.