The University of Bristol recently hosted Professor Richard Kaner for the prestigious Timms Lecture as part of the Peter Timms Symposium 2024. Known for his groundbreaking work in materials science, Kaner’s lecture drew an enthusiastic crowd of students, faculty, and researchers.
The Timms Lecture and Symposium was established in 2013 to recognize the pioneering work in inorganic and materials chemistry by the late Professor Peter Timms, and the significant contributions he made to the University of Bristol’s School of Chemistry. Timms’ widow, Liz Timms, presented Kaner with the Timms lecture trophy (pictured above) after his lecture.
A distinguished professor of chemistry and materials science and engineering at UCLA, Kaner has made significant contributions to the fields of graphene and conducting polymers. His innovative research has led to the development of new materials with remarkable properties, such as ultrafast charging supercapacitors and advanced water filtration systems. These advancements have not only propelled scientific understanding but have also paved the way for practical applications in various industries.
The Timms Lecture series at the University of Bristol is renowned for featuring leading scientists who have made notable advancements in their respective fields. Kaner’s lecture provided insights into the latest developments in nanomaterials and their potential to address pressing global challenges, from energy storage to environmental sustainability.
During his lecture, Kaner highlighted the remarkable properties of graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional lattice. Graphene’s exceptional strength, conductivity, and flexibility make it a material of immense interest for a wide range of applications. He discussed how his research team has developed scalable methods for producing high-quality graphene, making it more accessible for commercial use.
Kaner’s lecture at the University of Bristol not only showcased his pioneering research but also emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing scientific knowledge. By sharing his findings and engaging with the academic community at Bristol, he fostered an environment of intellectual exchange and inspired future research endeavors. The lecture sparked discussions on potential collaborations between UCLA and the University of Bristol, opening doors for joint research projects and student exchanges.
In addition to Kaner’s lecture, at the event Professor Anna Slater from the University of Liverpool delivered the keynote lecture, complemented by lectures from Dr. Mike Price and Dr. Ananya Mishra of the University of Bristol, alongside a poster session featuring ECR presenters in the afternoon, concluding with a wine reception.
Penny Jennings, UCLA Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, penny@chem.ucla.edu.
