Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025 Awarded to Three Scientists for Creating Innovative Molecular Structures
Three scientists have been awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for developing a revolutionary type of molecular structure capable of extracting carbon dioxide from the air and removing pollutants from water.
The laureates are Susumu Kitagawa of Kyoto University (Japan), Richard Robson of the University of Melbourne (Australia), and Omar M. Yaghi of the University of California, Berkeley (United States).
Their breakthrough involves the creation of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) — structures composed of metal nodes connected by organic ligands, molecules capable of forming multiple bonds. These frameworks contain large cavities that allow molecules to flow in and out, making them highly efficient for trapping and separating substances.
According to the Nobel Committee, MOFs can be used to filter “forever chemicals” from water, break down residual pharmaceutical traces in the environment, and capture carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere. Heiner Linke, chair of the Nobel Committee for Chemistry, likened the structures to “Hermione’s handbag in Harry Potter” — small but capable of holding vast amounts.
Speaking with journalists after the announcement, Kitagawa said he was “deeply honoured and delighted” to receive the award, expressing his aspiration to harness elements from the air to help power renewable energy. “This is quite important for our society and also our planet,” he said.
