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The Birch Lecture was established in 1981 in honour of Arthur J. Birch, MSc (Sydney & Manchester), DPhil (Oxon), FRIC, FRACI, FAA, FRS, to pay tribute to his extensive contributions to the Research School of Chemistry since its foundation in 1967. 

The aim of the visit of the Birch Lecturer is to enable eminent chemists to deliver a series of lectures on their research and to interact with School students and staff. Birch Lecturers are chemists who are at the peak of their international career.

The award is allocated on an annual basis and the Birch Lecturer will spend about one week in the School.

Agenda

The Path to Invention and Discovery in Catalysis

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM 

Presented by Sir David W. C. MacMillan, James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor of Chemistry at Princeton University and Nobel Laureate. Renowned for his groundbreaking discoveries in organocatalysis and photoredox catalysis, MacMillan’s work has reshaped modern synthetic chemistry and driven more sustainable approaches to chemical innovation. His visit promises an inspiring lecture and valuable engagement with students and researchers across the School.

Reception

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM 

A reception will be held immediately after the lecture. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in discussions. Drinks and canapes will be provided.

Abstract

This lecture discusses the advent and development of asymmetric organocatalysis in the MacMillan Laboratory. It also includes the exploration of the concepts of chemical reactivity, catalysis, and the asymmetry of organic molecules, as well as the impact of organocatalysis on modern synthetic chemistry and the real-world applications of this technology. We then look to the future and consider how organocatalysis may continue to influence scientific research and society. The second part of the talk is a lighthearted discussion of the life-changing experience of becoming a Nobel Prize winner, and the ways in which this experience shapes your perspective of science and society. 

Biography

Sir David W. C. MacMillan is the James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor of Chemistry at Princeton University and a Nobel Laureate in Chemistry. He is internationally recognised for pioneering asymmetric organocatalysis and for transformative contributions to photoredox catalysis, discoveries that have reshaped modern synthetic chemistry and enabled more sustainable and efficient chemical processes.

Sir David joined Princeton in 2006, where he has also served as Chair of the Department of Chemistry and as Director of the Princeton Catalysis Initiative. His work has had wide-ranging impact across pharmaceuticals, materials science, and chemical biology. In recognition of his contributions to science, he was awarded the 2021 Nobel Prize in Chemistry and was knighted in 2022 for services to chemistry.