2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry: Henri B. Kagan, who has close scientific ties to the ICN
- Research
on the October 14, 2026
Henri B. Kagan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2026. Several groups and researchers at the ICN have drawn inspiration from his work on stereochemistry or have collaborated directly with him. Here’s how his research has made an impact all the way in Nice.
Elisabet Duñach, former director of the ICN, was a postdoctoral researcher in H. Kagan’s group. She actively contributed to his work on nonlinear effects in asymmetric synthesis and is proud to have co-authored their famous joint publication in the Journal of the American Chemical Society in 1986.
The current director of the ICN, Uwe Meierhenrich, first met H. Kagan in June 2001, while conducting synchrotron experiments at LURE in Paris-Orsay. When the synchrotron staff went on strike—a dispute related to the development of the new SOLEIL synchrotron—the irradiation experiments were interrupted. U. Meierhenrich took advantage of this period to get in touch with H. Kagan.
Later, in May 2008, H. Kagan wrote the foreword to his book Amino Acids and the Asymmetry of Life. Professor W. Thiemann, U. Meierhenrich’s doctoral supervisor (Doktorvater), had first become interested in the problem of homochirality in 1957, following a lecture by Professor Huisgen in Munich. From then on, he remained in regular contact with H. Kagan, as they shared a keen scientific interest in chirality.
Henri Kagan’s chemistry has been a source of inspiration for researchers working in asymmetric catalysis, including the group led by Véronique Michelet, “Catalysis and Methods for Organic Synthesis and Fine Chemicals”. This inspiration stems in particular from Kagan’s discovery of the DIOP ligand, derived from tartaric acid, the first effective C₂-symmetric chiral diphosphine ligand used in asymmetric catalysis. DIOP forms complexes with metals such as palladium (Pd), rhodium (Rh), ruthenium (Ru), and gold (Au).
Dr. V. Mamane proposed a dedicated volume in honor of Professor H. Kagan, entitled “A Wonderful Journey in the Asymmetric Catalysis World: A Themed Issue in Honor of Prof. Henri B. Kagan.” Véronique Michelet’s group was delighted and proud to contribute to this special issue.
Professor H. Kagan is a true hero of molecular chemistry, and his work will continue to be taught for generations to come!
