The Section des Sciences naturelles, physiques et mathématiques of the Institut Grand-Ducal warmly invites to an inspiring conference by
Professor Ben L. FERINGA, Nobel Prize awardee in chemistry in 2016, Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
“The Joy of Discovery”.
Abstract of the conference: Exploring across the current frontiers of chemical sciences there is vast uncharted territory to experience the joy of discovery. Far beyond Nature’s design, the creative power of synthetic chemistry provides unlimited opportunities to realize our own molecular world as we experience every day with products ranging from drugs to displays that sustain modern society. In their practice of the art of building small, chemists have shown amazing success in the past decades. Moving from molecules to dynamic molecular systems the fundamental challenge is how to control and exploit motion at the nanoscale.
In this presentation the focus is on my journey in the world of molecular switches and motors, the process of discovery and my personal experiences through my scientific career. I will address how fundamental questions and molecular beauty have guided me on this journey and show illustrative examples of emerging opportunities in the field of molecular nanoscience.
Following the scientific session, we invite you to engage in a networking cocktail. This gathering will be a fantastic opportunity to connect with both the speaker and other colleagues.
Join us on Tuesday 11th November 2025 at the Athénée de Luxembourg, 24, boulevard Pierre Dupong, L-1430 Luxembourg, at 18h30.
To facilitate your visit and limit traffic around the establishment, we invite you to use public transport to reach the Athénée de Luxembourg during this evening: Bus No. 5, 6 (Merl, Parc stop), Bus No. 12, 15 (Merl, Athénée stop).
The event is organized under the patronage of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Luxembourg, in collaboration with the Fondation Jeunes Scientifiques Luxembourg and with financial support of the Ministry of Culture and the National Research Fund.