On October 16, the Isla de La Cartuja Scientific Research Center will have the privilege of welcoming Professor Morten P. Meldal, winner of the 2022 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his contributions to the development of click chemistry and bioorthogonal chemistry.
Morten Meldal is a Danish chemist and professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. He studied at the Technical University of Denmark, where he earned a master’s degree in chemical engineering and received his Ph.D. under the supervision of Klaus Bock. His work focused on the synthesis of carbohydrates. After a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Cambridge and a stint as a professor at the Carlsberg Research Laboratory, he joined the University of Copenhagen in 2011. It was there that he had the opportunity to lead the CECB research center, which specializes in peptide and combinatorial chemistry.
His work has contributed to the development of new peptide synthesis techniques and the CuAAC reaction—known as click chemistry—which are now widely used in bioorganic and organic research. Click chemistry allows molecules to be joined quickly, efficiently, specifically, and selectively to create more complex structures. Its name refers to the sound produced when two perfectly fitting pieces are joined together, such as a belt or two Lego blocks.
Similarly, if two molecules have the appropriate functional groups, they can bond in a simple, robust, and efficient manner, producing the characteristic “click” reaction and preventing the formation of byproducts.
Visit to cicCartuja
During his visit to the IIQ, Professor Meldal will participate in a meeting with students and young researchers, an exceptional opportunity to learn about the career and scientific work of one of the most prominent researchers in the field of chemistry. The event will also provide an opportunity to hear firsthand about his experience as a researcher and to share questions and concerns with him about chemical research and its applications.
Program
13.00 – 13.15h Arrival of Prof. Morten Meldal. Reception by board of Directors
13.15 – 13:30h Outline of the mission and vision of cicCartuja by Directors
Research at IIQ, ICMSE, and IBVF
13.30 – 14.30h Meeting with early-stage researchers (R&C, post-doctoral, pre-doctoral fellows).
The session will consist on an interview in which young scientist will ask Prof. Morten Meldal on his personal view on undertaking the challenge of pursuing a career in scientific research nowadays.
14.30 – 15.30h Altogether cocktail lunch at cicCartuja
Registration
Space to participate in the event is limited. Students interested in attending can register using the registration form until capacity is reached or by the deadline of October 10.
This is a unique opportunity for the student community to meet and talk with a Nobel Laureate in Chemistry.