Jean-Marie Lehn
Full Name and Common Aliases
Jean-Marie Lehn is a renowned French chemist, best known by his full name.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on September 30, 1939, in Hannover, Germany. Lehn passed away on August 10, 2020.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: French.
Profession: Chemist.
Early Life and Background
Lehn's early life was marked by turmoil. His family moved frequently due to his father's job as a diplomat. They eventually settled in Strasbourg, France, where Lehn developed a passion for chemistry during his school years.
He went on to study chemistry at the University of Strasbourg, where he earned his undergraduate degree. In 1963, Lehn received his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Heidelberg in Germany.
Major Accomplishments
Lehn's groundbreaking work has led to numerous accolades and recognition within the scientific community. Some notable achievements include:
His pioneering research on supramolecular chemistry earned him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1987.
He was elected as a member of the French Academy of Sciences in 1997.
Notable Works or Actions
Lehn's work has had far-reaching implications for various fields, including materials science and molecular recognition. Some notable contributions include:
The Concept of Supramolecular Chemistry: Lehn introduced this concept, which focuses on understanding chemical interactions that occur between molecules.
Synthesis of Complex Molecules: He developed methods to synthesize complex molecules with specific functions, paving the way for breakthroughs in fields like materials science and pharmaceuticals.
Lehn's dedication to scientific research has inspired generations of chemists worldwide.
Impact and Legacy
Lehn's work has had a lasting impact on various fields. His contributions have led to new discoveries and innovative applications in:
Materials Science: Lehn's work laid the foundation for the development of advanced materials with unique properties.
Molecular Recognition: His research has enabled scientists to design molecules that can selectively interact with specific targets, opening up possibilities for novel pharmaceuticals.
Lehn's legacy extends beyond his scientific contributions. He was a passionate advocate for science education and outreach, striving to make chemistry accessible to broader audiences.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Jean-Marie Lehn is widely quoted and remembered due to his:
Pioneering Research: His groundbreaking work on supramolecular chemistry has had far-reaching implications for various fields.
Inspiring Legacy: Lehn's dedication to scientific research, education, and outreach has inspired countless individuals worldwide.
As a leading figure in the field of chemistry, Lehn's quotes and insights offer valuable perspectives on the importance of science, innovation, and collaboration.
Quotes by Jean-Marie Lehn
Science has nothing to do with any dogma. Science ceases to exist when there is a dogma.
Think that you are part of a big construction called science and you are not just a chemist but you are scientist. Be modest but proud. Modest because you know you will not be able to solve other problems because your life is too short. But be proud because you are contributing to it. Some people will bring a small stone to the building and some people will bring a big one but nevertheless no one can take that stone away from you.
Darwinan evolution is limited to the biological aspect but before that happened the molecules themselves had to evolve to enable this further (biological) evolution.
We can look at the way of improving the key biochemical processes like photosynthesis itself. A lot of energy is lost to keep the plant cool. So maybe we can think of building plants which are more resistant to heat. Genetically modified plants can be one answer and we can imagine more efficient plants, call them 'energy plants'. And I believe, contrary to what ecologists think, they can still be beautiful plants.
The pace at which science has progressed has been too fast for human behaviour to adapt to it. As I said we are still apes. A part of our brain is still a paleo-brain and many of the reactions come from our fight or flight instinct. As long as this part of the brain can take over control the rational part of the brain (we will face these problems).
Modifying ourselves is a natural process because we are a product of nature and what we do is a product of nature. Therefore, if one day we have three time bigger brain and two hearts instead of one (because one is not enough) then this is all part of nature.
In 1998, I set up and directed a research group at the Nanotechnology Institute newly created in the Research Center of Karlsruhe. This allowed to offer to former post-doctoral coworkers the opportunity to develop and to progressively set up independent research activities in nanoscience and nanotechnology.
Supramolecular chemistry is the chemistry of the intermolecular bond, covering the structures and functions of the entities formed by association of two or more chemical species.
Supramolecular chemistry, the designed chemistry of the intermolecular bond, is rapidly expanding at the frontiers of molecular science with physical and biological phenomena.
I was promoted associate professor in early 1970 and full professor in October of the same year. I spent the two spring semesters of 1972 and 1974 as visiting professor at Harvard University, giving lectures and directing a research project.