Metal-Free Catalysis Pioneer Receives Top Honour from Royal Society of Chemistry

Chemistry Honours: RSC Recognises Melen for Groundbreaking Research on Frustrated Lewis Pairs

The Sir Geoffrey Wilkinson Prize, a distinguished honour awarded by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), recognises outstanding achievements in inorganic chemistry by mid-career scientists. In 2025, this prestigious accolade was awarded to Professor Rebecca L. Melen from the School of Chemistry, highlighting her as a leading figure in her field. Her selection was made by the Dalton Prize Committee of the RSC, who cited her pioneering contributions to understanding the reactivity of frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) through both single- and two-electron mechanisms. This recognition not only celebrates her excellence but also reinforces the importance of advancing innovative approaches within modern inorganic chemistry.

As part of the award, Professor Melen will receive £3,000, a commemorative medal, and the opportunity to deliver lectures across UK and Irish universities in 2026. She expressed gratitude for the recognition, calling the association with Sir Geoffrey Wilkinson’s legacy deeply meaningful. She credited her past and present research team for their dedication and creativity, which she said were key to the honoured work.

Professor Melen’s current research explores synthetic chemistry and catalysis, focusing on non-bonded radical pairs and metal-free systems. She highlighted the environmental and economic drawbacks of traditional metal-based catalysis, arguing that avoiding rare or toxic metals supports green chemistry and sustainable, low-waste technologies. She described the field as both exciting and essential for creating impactful discoveries. Professor Melen’s recognition reflects a growing emphasis on sustainable innovation and collaborative excellence within the field of inorganic chemistry.

Editor’s Note:

Professor Rebecca L. Melen’s recognition with the Sir Geoffrey Wilkinson Prize marks a milestone not only in her academic journey but also in the broader direction of modern chemistry. As global challenges mount in areas like sustainability, energy efficiency, and waste reduction, her work exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking science that responds to these urgent needs. By focusing on metal-free catalysis and the chemistry of non-bonded radical pairs, she is helping to reimagine the foundations of chemical synthesis, making it not just more efficient but more environmentally responsible. This honour underscores the importance of recognising mid-career researchers whose work bridges foundational theory and practical impact. Professor Melen’s approach reflects a commitment to scientific rigour while also embracing innovation that serves both industry and the environment. Such recognition serves as a powerful message to the scientific community: that bold, sustainability-focused research is both necessary and valued.

Skoobuzz underscores that in today’s complex world, celebrating researchers who challenge conventions and push chemistry toward greener, more inclusive outcomes is not just timely,it’s essential.