Two distinguished researchers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have been celebrated for their groundbreaking work in chemistry at the 2025 Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) National Awards. The awards, which recognize excellence in the chemical sciences, honored Professor Pall Thordarson and Professor Chuan Zhao for their significant contributions to the fields of supramolecular chemistry and green energy technology.
Professor Pall Thordarson, a leading figure in supramolecular chemistry and nanotechnology, received the prestigious Leighton Memorial Medal. Meanwhile, Professor Chuan Zhao was awarded the Applied Research Award for his pioneering work in electrochemical science. These accolades underscore UNSW’s commitment to advancing chemical sciences and its impact on both national and international stages.
Celebrating Excellence in Chemistry
The recognition of Professors Thordarson and Zhao comes as UNSW continues to be a beacon of innovation in the scientific community. Professor Sven Rogge, Dean of Science at UNSW, expressed his pride in the achievements of his colleagues, highlighting their dedication and innovation in driving the future of chemistry in Australia.
“The RACI National Awards recognize exceptional chemists across all career stages. I am very proud of Professors Thordarson and Zhao for their outstanding contributions to UNSW and broader science communities,” said Professor Rogge.
Professor Pall Thordarson: Chemistry and Life
Professor Thordarson’s career is a testament to the intersection of chemistry and biology. His work in supramolecular chemistry and nanotechnology has led to the development of life-changing products, including smart gels and biodevices that enhance the efficacy of anti-cancer drugs while minimizing chemotherapy side effects. His innovations have also advanced the creation of biosensors for medical applications.
As the Director of the UNSW RNA Institute, Australia’s first and leading RNA research hub, Professor Thordarson oversees cutting-edge research in biology, chemistry, and medicine. His team’s work in RNA technologies and therapeutics is paving the way for new vaccines and treatments for various diseases.
“Chemistry is everywhere. Everything we care about in this world, including us and those we love, are all made of chemicals. It’s the key to understanding life and the world around us,” Professor Thordarson passionately stated. “It’s through chemistry that we can maintain, grow or change everything around us.”
Professor Chuan Zhao: Innovating Green Energy
Professor Zhao’s contributions to the field of green energy are equally transformative. His research focuses on developing low-cost catalysts using renewable energy to produce hydrogen fuel, a crucial component in the transition to sustainable energy sources. His work has significantly impacted the hydrogen industry, providing more efficient methods for hydrogen production through patented technologies and spinout companies.
One of the major challenges in the widespread adoption of green hydrogen is cost. Professor Zhao’s innovations in creating catalysts from common elements like nickel and iron, as opposed to expensive precious metals, are critical in addressing this challenge.
“By innovating clean energy technologies and enabling scalable, affordable hydrogen production, we’re contributing to global decarbonization and supporting Australia’s transition to a net-zero economy,” said Professor Zhao.
Implications and Future Directions
The achievements of Professors Thordarson and Zhao not only highlight individual excellence but also reflect broader trends in the scientific community towards sustainable and life-enhancing technologies. The RACI National Awards serve as a platform to celebrate such advancements and inspire future generations of chemists.
Professor Amanda Ellis, President of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute, emphasized the importance of these awards in fostering community, diversity, and vision within the field of chemistry.
“They celebrate community, diversity, and vision. I am deeply proud of each winner whose work advances chemistry and contributes to the greater good,” she said. “Their stories are ones we want everyone to know.”
As UNSW continues to lead in scientific research and innovation, the recognition of its academics at the RACI National Awards is a testament to its enduring impact on the global stage. For more information about RACI and the awards, interested parties can visit their official website.
