Day one of the ChemComm symposium was packed with 12 talks and a two hour poster session. A good hearty breakfast was essential to ensure energy levels remained high. At breakfast I was joined by Luet Wong, ChemComm Associate Editor Jonathan Sessler and the co-organiser of the event, Wonwoo Nam. Jonathan managed to work the conversation round to the topic of beer and its importance in collaborative research – a theme that would reappear later in the day! I also received an invitation to say a few words, as Editor, at the Korean ChemComm symposium. I accepted with pleasure, although I am sure I will be be less enthusiastic on Thursday with the onset of nerves.
Following opening remarks from organiser Professor Shunichi Fukuzumi, Gary Brudvig (Yale) discussed model systems for water splitting based on photosystems 2 (it would be highlighted later that these systems currently rank as some of the best examples in the literature). My favourite talk of the day was given by Craig Hill (Emory). Craig discussed his cobalt polyoxometalates and highlighted that these are the most effective water splitting catalysts around to date, also benefitting from the fact that they are homogenous and simple to produce. He also alluded to new cobalt catalysts that have been produced in his lab, yet to be published, that are producing even more spectacular results.
Is that water or sake Jonathan's about to drink?
After such a great day of science there was only one way to finish: a speakers dinner consisting of 12 courses lubricated with fine Japanese beer and sake. En route to the dinner I shared the lift with 15+ Japanese ladies who appeared to be at a convention in the hotel. A surreal experience where I felt like a giant!
At dinner, Jonathan Sessler continued to highlight the importance of alcohol in research. I am sure this will not be the last time we hear this…. It should be added that such a philosophy has been wonderfully supported by our hosts already. The dinner ended with a group photo and three cheers for Wonwoo Nam and Shunichi Fukuzumi led by Harry Gray. A fine end to an excellent first day.
