Samuel Stupp presented with prestigious chemistry award

Samuel I. Stupp, Director of the Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, has been honored with the Soft Matter and Biophysical Chemistry Award from the Royal Society of Chemistry. Stupp's research focuses on the design of supramolecular materials that can signal cells and be used in novel therapies for regenerative medicine. Progress has led to the development of materials that mimic the natural structures that surround cells in the human body and activate the necessary signals to initiate the growth of tissues and organs. This award recognizes Stupp's fundamental contributions to the science of supramolecular soft matter and demonstrating its value to control biophysical interactions with mammalian cells.

"I am absolutely flattered and delighted to receive this honor from the Royal Society of Chemistry's Faraday Division recognizing our work on bioactive supramolecular soft matter" said Professor Stupp. "The development of these soft biomaterials is extremely important to future therapies in regenerative medicine and many other disease therapies involving delivery of macromolecular drugs such as proteins and antibodies. The research has required convergence of chemistry, biology, materials science, and medicine."

The Soft Matter and Biophysical Chemistry Award honors outstanding and innovative research in soft condensed matter and the application of physico-chemical techniques to biological problems. As a result of this award, Stupp will receive a medal during the award symposium and undertake a lecture tour in the U.K.

The Royal Society of Chemistry, based in the United Kingdom, is the largest organization in Europe dedicated to advancing the chemical sciences.