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Texas A&M at Qatar hosted Nobel laureate to open chemistry conference

Published Jan 25, 2010

Scholars meet to discuss changes in the field of chemistry.

More than 100 chemistry scholars attended the fourth annual QAFCO-Texas A&M at Qatar Chemistry Conference. Sponsored by Qatar Fertiliser Company, the conference aims to bring the latest in global research in the field of chemistry to the State of Qatar and the region.



Dr. Robert Grubbs, the Victor and Elizabeth Atkins Professor of Chemistry at the California Institute of Technology and a 2005 Nobel laureate in chemistry, opened the conference with his keynote lecture, titled “The synthesis of large and small molecules using olefin metathesis catalysts.” His lecture focused on the design, synthesis and mechanic studies of complexes that catalyze basic organic transformations. The major focus of his research is to optimize the utility of the olefin metathesis reaction.

Dr. Mark H. Weichold, dean and CEO, gave the official welcome for the conference.

“The QAFCO-Texas A&M at Qatar chemistry conference sends the message that the Texas A&M at Qatar Science Program is very serious about contributing to the success of the technical and scientific community,” Weichold said. “This conference is the best example of that, drawing people in from all over the world and all facets of science.”

Mr. Khalifa Al-Sowaidi, managing director of QAFCO, commented on the strong relationship with Texas A&M at Qatar, highlighting the importance of chemistry and the work of educators, scientists and researchers.

“It is a matter of pride for us that we are associated with this chemistry conference as sponsors.” Al-Sowaidi said. “Together with Texas A&M at Qatar, we endeavor to strengthen our future generation, our economic and social resources and to have our environment more healthier to live in.”

Dr. Hassan S. Bazzi, coordinator of the Science Program and senior associate professor of chemistry at Texas A&M at Qatar, said events such as the chemistry conference provide an outlet for the exchange of scientific knowledge.

“The role of the chemistry conference to offer researchers a way to exchange ideas, receiving updates about results of other research projects and learning about new discoveries,” Bazzi said. “The conference is about making contacts and establishing connections with our visitors and fellow researchers.”

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