Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025 Honors Metal–Organic Frameworks Innovators

Sydney, Oct 9 (The Conversation) — The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded for pioneering work on metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), remarkable molecular structures with vast internal spaces capable of capturing and storing various substances. The prestigious award is jointly bestowed upon Susumu Kitagawa from Kyoto University, Omar M. Yaghi from the University of California, Berkeley, and Richard Robson from the University of Melbourne.

In a groundbreaking discovery made in 1989, Robson, along with his collaborator Bernard Hoskins, first unveiled MOFs, marking a significant milestone in chemistry. This recognition is a testament to Robson’s enduring commitment to research and education in coordination and inorganic chemistry, illustrating how fundamental science can have a real-world impact.

Richard Robson's work continues to inspire countless scientists, including many Australian researchers. Nearing 90, Robson still actively contributes to the field, mentoring students and collaborating with fellow scientists. His partnership with Richard Abrahams has deepened the understanding of electron movement within MOFs, influencing many young chemists worldwide.

MOFs, initially a product of scientific curiosity, have emerged as transformative innovations addressing global challenges. These highly porous crystalline materials consist of metal ions linked by organic bridges. Imagine a sponge on an atomic scale — a teaspoon of MOFs can encompass a surface area equivalent to a football field.

These materials offer diverse applications. Some MOFs capture water from desert air, while others extract carbon dioxide and other pollutants from the atmosphere. They even purify water by removing hazardous chemicals. Despite starting his work on MOFs decades ago, Robson’s contributions are now pivotal in addressing vast global issues.

Robson’s pioneering idea, presented in 2018 at a plenary lecture, was to interconnect metal ions and organic compounds using coordination chemistry — much like assembling a molecular Lego structure. Over the years, Kitagawa and Yaghi expanded upon Robson’s initial discoveries, refining and stabilizing these remarkable materials.

From the thousands of MOFs developed, some are finding commercial applications. For instance, studies by Robson and Abrahams revealed that certain MOFs can effectively remove potent anesthetic greenhouse gases from operating rooms, gases far more concerning than carbon dioxide in terms of environmental impact. Furthermore, MOFs are extracting water from the air, crucial for regions facing severe water scarcity.

In Australia, discussions on research value, higher education, and productivity highlight the essential need for sustained support in scientific endeavors. Richard Robson’s legacy underscores the vital role of persistent educational and research backing. Fundamental, curiosity-driven science provides a foundation for groundbreaking solutions to current and future challenges.

Robson now joins an elite group of 11 other Australian Nobel laureates, marking a proud moment for the nation. His remarkable achievement resonates powerfully on the global stage. SCY SCY

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