Distinguished professor Bert Meijer, from Eindhoven University of Technology, was conferred the honor after the jury cited his numerous achievements in organic and polymer chemistry. These have included introducing patented technology which led to the development of the first nano-container (also called the dendritic box), and the synthesis and development of supramolecular polymers. Meijer was arguably the first scientist capable of translating the concept of supramolecular polymer into viable commercial products with polymer-like properties.
“He is an enterprising and brilliant scientist who gives inspiring leadership to innovative, cutting-edge scientific research with clear practical relevance”, stated the judging panel in its consideration.

Editor of Journal of Polymer Science: Polymer Chemistry and elected member of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences and the Royal Holland Society of Sciences and Humanities, Prof. Meijer has received various research awards, including the 2006 Polymer Chemistry Award of the American Chemical Society and the 2001 Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research’s Spinoza Prize, widely regarded as the highest scientific award in Holland.

The AkzoNobel Science Awards are presented annually in recognition of outstanding scientific contributions by individuals in the fields of chemistry and materials science. The AkzoNobel Science Awards are handed out in the Netherlands and Sweden in alternate years and in China every other year. Prof. Meijer will officially receive his and the accompanying €50,000 prize at a ceremony being held on October 7 at the Royal Holland Society of Sciences and Humanities in Haarlem.