Professor Sébastien Perrier

Winner: 2024 Interdisciplinary Prize

University of Warwick

For interdisciplinary research in the synthesis and applications of therapeutic materials.

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I strongly believe that the next generation of researchers should be trained in multiple disciplines so that we can address modern challenges.

Professor Perrier's work sits at the crossroads of chemistry, materials science, and biology, and aims to address pressing global health challenges. His research focuses on developing innovative materials made from polymers for various medical applications, including combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) – a major threat to modern medicine – and advanced delivery systems for therapeutics, ranging from small molecules to RNA (ribonucleic acid).

Sébastien’s pioneering work explores how cells interact with these materials at the nanoscale. His research holds promise for breakthroughs in drug delivery systems, brain-targeted therapies, and antibacterial agents, hinting at a future where nanotechnology plays a vital role in healthcare. Sébastien's interdisciplinary approach extends beyond scientific achievements to training future generations of researchers. His diverse team includes chemists, biologists, engineers, and more and they work in a collaborative environment where everyone contributes to the team’s research.

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Professor Sébastien Perrier graduated from École National Supérieure de Chimie de Montpellier, France, in 1998. He undertook his PhD at the University of Warwick in polymer chemistry, followed by one year as postdoc at the University of New South Wales, Australia. He was appointed at Leeds University in 2002 as a lecturer, then moved to the University of Sydney in 2007, as director of the Key Centre for Polymers & Colloids. In October 2013, Sébastien moved to a joint Chair between the Chemistry Department and the Medical School at the University of Warwick, and the Faculty of Pharmacy at Monash University, Australia.

Sébastien’s team focuses on the use of macromolecular engineering to design functional nanostructured materials, with applications ranging from material science to nanomedicine. He has published over 300 articles, which have received over 25,000 citations, and supervised over 100 postgraduate students and postdocs. He has held a wide range of active roles through his involvement in professional societies, including the Macro Group UK, the Australian RACI Polymer division, the IUPAC committee, and through membership of editorial boards of journals from the 欧美AV, ACS and Wiley. He served as an Associate Editor of the 欧美AV journal Polymer Chemistry, and he is now Deputy Editor for ACS Polymers Au. His awards include the Australian Academy of Science Le Fèvre Memorial Prize (2013), the Royal Society Wolfson Merit Award (2014), the ACS Biomacromolecules/Macromolecules Young Investigator Award (2014), the Samsung-IUPAC Young Polymer Scientist Award (2014) and the Macro Group UK Medal (2018).

Q&A

How did you first become interested in chemistry?

I've always had a keen interest in science but found it challenging to narrow down my specialisation to just one discipline among chemistry, physics, biology, and even mathematics and engineering. Chemistry seemed like the most fitting choice as it connects all of these fields. While the common perception of a chemist may revolve around making molecules, the scope of chemistry encompasses advanced physics concepts (such as photophysics, electronics, and thermodynamics), biology (including pivotal reactions in cell biology), and even engineering principles when considering chemical processes and mechanical properties of materials. I ultimately chose to specialise in polymer science because it delves deeply into all of these disciplines.

What advice would you give to a young person considering a career in chemistry?

Chemistry encompasses various disciplines, making it a multidisciplinary science. My foremost advice would be for individuals to explore different branches of chemistry to discern their interests, whether in organic, inorganic, physical, analytical, or interdisciplinary fields such as materials science or biochemistry. Then establish a strong foundation, by focusing initially on fundamental concepts and theories. Given that chemistry is dynamic and constantly evolving, with new discoveries emerging regularly, fostering a mindset of continuous learning is also essential – I find myself learning new things all the time! Networking and collaboration are also paramount. Chemistry serves as a cornerstone in numerous fields, facilitating abundant opportunities for collaboration and networking.

But one of the most appealing aspects of a career in chemistry is, I think, its diversity, offering pathways across academia, industry, government, healthcare, and environmental sectors. And beyond these, remember that not all chemists wear lab coats. Some pursue careers in law, such as patent attorneys, while others venture into media, arts, and various other domains.

Why is chemistry important?

Chemistry provides insights into the composition, structure, and properties of matter. It helps us understand the fundamental building blocks of the universe, from atoms and molecules to complex materials and substances. More pragmatically, it underpins numerous technological advancements that shape our modern world, from pharmaceuticals and healthcare to electronics, energy production, and materials science.

Chemistry plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and progress, and it is instrumental in addressing pressing global challenges, including climate change, environmental pollution, and public health issues.

Chemistry enables the development of sustainable materials, renewable energy sources, and cleaner manufacturing processes. It is also indispensable in the field of medicine, enabling the discovery and development of drugs, vaccines, and medical treatments. It also contributes to diagnostics, imaging technologies, etc. And these are just a few examples of the many fields in which chemistry can make a difference!

Why do you think collaboration and teamwork are important in science?

Teamwork and collaboration are critical to science. Collaboration encourages creativity and innovation by exposing researchers to different ways of thinking and problem-solving. Working together often leads to novel ideas and breakthroughs that might not have been possible through solitary efforts. By collaborating, scientists can combine their diverse expertise to tackle complex problems that require multidisciplinary approaches. Many of the most pressing challenges facing society today, such as climate change, public health crises, and technological innovation, are complex and multifaceted. Collaboration allows scientists to pool their resources and expertise to tackle these grand challenges more effectively.

Communication is also enhanced through collaborations. Collaborative research often involves partnerships with stakeholders from various sectors, including academia, industry, and government. This fosters effective communication and dissemination of scientific knowledge.