Mislow Lecture: Geoffrey Coates

Polymeric materials have become more essential to modern society than ever before. Synthetic polymers are ubiquitous, serving critical roles in everything from everyday packaging and structural components to advanced biomedical and electronic technologies. However, their production and end-of-life management present significant environmental challenges. This lecture will highlight our research at the intersection of polymer science and catalysis, focusing on three key areas: (1) enabling the mechanical recycling of existing polymers, (2) designing polymers that are chemically recyclable, and (3) developing sustainable catalytic pathways to biodegradable plastics. Special emphasis will be placed on polymer stereochemistry, where—unlike in small-molecule synthesis—a high degree of stereochemical control can be a liability rather than an advantage. Together, these efforts aim to build a more circular and environmentally responsible future for polymer materials.