Dr. Ryoji Noyori stands as a preeminent figure in modern chemistry, renowned for his transformative contributions to asymmetric synthesis. He currently holds the prestigious position of University Professor at Nagoya University, a role he has occupied since 2003 following his distinguished tenure as President of RIKEN from 2003 to 2015. Born in Kobe, Japan in 1938, Noyori received his formal education at Kyoto University, earning his Bachelor's degree in 1961, Master's degree in 1963, and Doctor of Engineering in 1967. His academic journey included a formative postdoctoral year at Harvard University with Professor E.J. Corey from 1969 to 1970, which significantly shaped his research trajectory in organic chemistry.
Professor Noyori's groundbreaking work centers on the development of asymmetric catalysis using chiral organometallic compounds, a field he pioneered beginning in 1966. His invention of the BINAP ligand in 1980 revolutionized asymmetric hydrogenation, creating catalysts whose efficiency equals or exceeds that of enzymes for specific transformations. These chiral catalysts, particularly the Ru-BINAP complexes, have enabled highly efficient syntheses of organic molecules with significant theoretical and practical applications across pharmaceutical and chemical industries. The industrial implementation of his methodologies has facilitated large-scale production of valuable compounds including menthol, carbapenem antibiotics, and various antibacterial agents, demonstrating the profound real-world impact of his scientific innovations.
Beyond his research achievements, Noyori has profoundly shaped the global scientific community through extensive leadership roles including his presidency of the Chemical Society of Japan from 2002 to 2003 and his service on numerous national advisory councils. His commitment to scientific education and policy is evident through his current position as Director-General of the Center for Research and Development Strategy at Japan Science and Technology Agency since 2015. Noyori continues to advocate for excellence in scientific research and education, mentoring generations of chemists while promoting international collaboration in chemical sciences. His enduring legacy encompasses not only his Nobel Prize-winning discoveries but also his visionary leadership that has elevated Japanese scientific research to global prominence.
