In this video, we discuss the role of synthetic organic chemistry in science and society. Organic molecules are everywhere – in the medicines that keep us healthy, the plastics in our products and devices, the fuels that power our homes and vehicles, and the agricultural innovations that help feed our planet. However, most of the molecules that society requires do not exist in nature – we have to design and make them from simpler building blocks. This video describes this process, and illustrates the central role of organic synthesis in many scientific disciplines and industries. Dr. Knowles is a 2017 Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar.

Tags: robert knowles princeton university synthetic organic chemistry