Sir James Fraser Stoddart, a distinguished chemist and Nobel laureate, passed away on December 30, 2024. In 2006, the University of Twente honoured Professor Stoddart with an honorary doctorate, recognizing his significant contributions to chemistry. His association with the university strengthened its research endeavours and inspired many within the academic community. Stoddart worked with Professor of Chemistry David Reinhoudt, former scientific director of MESA+.
Born on May 24, 1942, in Edinburgh, Scotland, he was renowned for his pioneering work in supramolecular chemistry and nanotechnology, particularly in the development of molecular machines. Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Stoddart's innovative research led to the synthesis of mechanically interlocked molecules, such as catenanes and rotaxanes, which have applications in molecular electronics and nanotechnology. His groundbreaking work earned him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2016 for the design and synthesis of molecular machines, which he shared with Ben Feringa and Jean-Pierre Sauvage.
The University of Twente and the broader scientific world mourn the loss of Sir Fraser Stoddart, whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations of chemists and researchers.
Honorary Doctorate Ceremony in 2006. From left to right: John Mauger (he replaced Sung Wan Kim who was ill), Sheila Jasanoff, Fraser Stoddart and Gerard Holzmann.
