Considerans Gouden medaille 2024
Caroline Paul’s pioneering contributions to the fields of biocatalysis, chemical synthesis, and sustainable technology have marked her as a visionary leader in chemistry. Her innovative research, which spans bio-, chemo-, and photocatalysis, has significantly advanced our understanding and application of catalytic processes, setting new standards in the scientific community.
Caroline Paul is renowned for her groundbreaking work on non-natural cofactor analogues, which has redefined the boundaries of biocatalytic transformations. Her research has enabled the development of artificial bioorthogonal pathways and "better-than-nature" enzymatic reactions. These discoveries have not only enhanced our fundamental understanding of enzyme processes but have also opened new avenues for sustainable industrial applications. Her work has had profound implications for the future of green chemistry, providing alternative, more sustainable routes for chemical manufacturing.
Her prolific output, comprising over 50 high-impact research publications in leading journals such as Nature Communications, Angewandte Chemie, and Journal of the American Chemical Society, is a testament to her scientific rigor and creativity. Her research is celebrated for its originality, international reach, and strong interdisciplinary impact and her influence and excellence are highlighted by numerous prestigious awards, including the ERC Starting Grant, the Chemistry Europe Fellowship, and the NWO ENW XL Grants.
Beyond her research achievements, Caroline Paul is an inspiring educator and a dedicated mentor. She has a talent for conveying complex scientific ideas in an engaging and accessible manner, earning her widespread admiration from students and peers alike. Her ability to translate her research into relatable narratives is evidenced by her public outreach activities, including social media engagement and popular science articles. Furthermore, she co-founded the NextGenBiocat initiative, which supports early-career researchers, and has taken up leading roles in several national and international scientific organizations.
Caroline Paul’s success is not confined to the academic sphere; her research has tangible societal impact. Her innovative catalytic systems and sustainable processes are shaping the future of green industrial chemistry, guiding us toward a more environmentally friendly and resource-efficient future. Her ability to bridge fundamental research with practical applications showcases her exceptional skill in translating science into real-world solutions.
The KNCV Gouden Medaille is awarded to Caroline Paul for her outstanding contributions to chemistry, her pioneering spirit, and her unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and sustainability. Her work exemplifies the transformative potential of modern catalysis and serves as an inspiration to chemists and engineers around the world.
We are proud to celebrate her achievements and look forward to the future breakthroughs that will undoubtedly continue to arise from her dynamic and innovative research.
Congratulations, Caroline Paul, on receiving the KNCV Gouden Medaille 2024!
Katja Loos
Chair of the KNCV Gold Medal 2023 Committee
