Research is crucial for society’s growth: Jean-Marie Lehn

Enthusiasm was palpable among Chemistry students of Gujarat University (GU) as they trooped in at GU's Convention Hall on Monday. The future chemists had gathered to listen to Professor Jean-Marie Lehn, 1987 Nobel Prize winner for his contribution to chemical sciences. He was in the city to deliver a keynote address on 'Perspective in Chemistry: From supramolecular chemistry towards adaptive chemistry.

Lehn, in his speech, said that supramolecules will find greater utility in the future - from making tailor-made medicines to heal receptors in human body.

GU vice-chancellor Dr Parimal Trivedi, pro V-C Dr Mukul Shah and other department heads were present at the event to listen to the Nobel Laureate speak on his work that won him the Nobel Prize - synthesis of cryptands- with Donald Cram and Charles Pedersen.

Speaking to DNA, Lehn said that research held much importance for development of a society. However, interest among students for science and research is diminishing not only in India, but also in Europe. "Society needs all kinds of people. To become a scientist, it requires passion. It means, contributing to knowledge, first to understand it and then apply that understanding. I would encourage students to take up science," said Lehn.

In Europe, only those people study science who are interested in pursuing research. "Science is a mantle for mankind. It is important for application, for the benefit of society. All things we see today, are a result of it," said Lehn. He believes nanotechnology is the future, not only for the world, but also for growth and application of material sciences, life studies and even the basic sciences.