Caroline Paul receives KNCV Gold Medal 2024
Caroline Paul, Associate Professor at Delft University of Technology, receives the KNCV Gold Medal 2024. She is awarded the prestigious Dutch scientific award as a chemist under the age of 40 who has already demonstrated scientific excellence and from whom much is expected in the coming years. The award will be awarded on 3 December during the NWO CHAINS chemistry conference in Veldhoven, The Netherlands.
Nature's catalysts
Caroline Paul has gained international recognition for her research into so-called non-natural analogues of cofactors — 'supporting' molecules that enable enzymes to do their job. In doing so, she has significantly increased the possibilities of using enzymes, nature's catalysts, for chemical reactions. Her research thus opens new ways of developing sustainable, environmentally friendly production processes for the chemical industry.
Originality, creativity and societal impact
The jury, chaired by polymer chemist Professor Katja Loos (University of Groningen), praised the originality and creativity of Paul's research, which is also characterised by a strong interdisciplinary approach and a clear societal impact. The quality and international visibility of her work is demonstrated by numerous publications in leading scientific journals and by prestigious awards and grants, including an ERC Starting Grant, a Chemistry Europe Fellowship and an NWO ENW XL Grant.
Inspiring teacher
In addition to her scientific achievements, the jury sees in Caroline Paul an inspiring teacher and a dedicated mentor. She is also a highly skilled science communicator, capable of explaining complex phenomena and results to a wider audience. In her outreach activities, she frequently uses social media channels and popular science media to reach new audiences. She also founded the NextGenBiocat initiative to support early career researchers and is active in various (inter)national scientific organisations.
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About the KNCV Gold Medal
The KNCV Gold Medal is awarded annually and is the most important Dutch prize for researchers who have distinguished themselves in the field of chemical research in the broadest sense. The award is open to researchers up to the age of 40 who are expected to become leaders in their field. The Gold Medal has been awarded to chemical talent working in the Netherlands since 1963.
About the KNCV
The Royal Netherlands Chemical Society (KNCV) operates at a time when the role of chemistry and the life sciences in society is becoming increasingly important, whether it concerns climate, energy and materials transition or new medicines. With a community of about 5,000 members, consisting of scientists, industry professionals and government organisations, the KNCV, as an independent association, has a unique position as the network of choice for chemists and life scientists in the Netherlands.
Source: KNCV