Chemical Communications Blog

ChemComm is publishing its 60th volume in 2024. Over the past 60 years, ChemComm has been the RSC’s most cited journal, and one of the most trusted venues for rapid publication of short communications. In our anniversary year, we recognise the important contributions ChemComm has made, and continues to make, in advancing the chemical sciences.

As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ve brought together a collection featuring the latest research from some of our most loyal and dedicated authors. From those marking the beginning of their independent academic career by publishing their first article with us, to the rising stars and established leaders publishing in our yearly ‘Emerging Investigators’ and ‘Pioneering Investigators’ collections, this collection champions the contributions of our worldwide author community. We are proud many authors choose to support our journal by regularly publishing their best work with us. This collection also features papers from our ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship winners, and our Outstanding Reviewer awardees, whose invaluable feedback has shaped our published content through the years.

To accompany the collection, we’ll be publishing interviews with contributing authors where they provide further insight into their research and reflect on their journey with ChemComm.

Check out our interview with Professor Robert Raja (University of Southampton, UK) below!

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Robert Raja is Professor of Materials Chemistry and Catalysis at the University of Southampton and co-founder and Chief Scientific Advisor of ViridiCO2, a spin-out company from the University. His career includes appointments at the University of Cambridge (1999-2006), Bayer Chemicals, Germany (joint appointment, 2001-2003) and Royal Commission 1851 Exhibition fellowship at the Royal Institution of Great Britain (1997-1999). His current research activities are focussed on enabling the predictive design platform that he and his research group have developed for the discovery and design of single-site heterogeneous catalysts, which could be used in facilitating sustainable chemical transformations. Using innovative catalytic technologies, his group has developed industrial decarbonisation solutions for building a circular economy, through mitigating the use of fossil fuels and using alternate feedstocks, including CO2, for the production of renewable fuels and polymers. He has published over 200 research articles in peer-reviewed journals and is the co-inventor on 50+ international patents. His notable accolades include the 2020 Emerging Technologies Award in Energy and Environment, the Erskine Fellowship awarded by the University of Canterbury, New Zealand and the Barrer Award by the Royal Society of Chemistry ‘in recognition of outstanding contributions to preparative materials chemistry and their application to industrial catalysis’.

How have you seen ChemComm evolve over the years, and what aspects do you find most noteworthy?

I published my first paper in ChemComm in 1998, when I started my postdoctoral research at the Royal Institution, as an 1851 Exhibition Fellow.  We had two pages to communicate our findings and we did not have the option to include supplementary information (only print versions were available at that time). ChemComm was one of the first high-impact journals to move to the digital format, which gave authors four pages to highlight their research in the form of a Communication.  Despite the increase in the number of pages, ChemComm still provided a rapid turnaround in reaching peer review decisions and were very quick to get our articles to the print form, which was noteworthy.

What is your favourite thing about ChemComm?

I still remember creating my first front cover for ChemComm back in 2001.  This was a feature article titled “catalytic selectivity of porous oxides”, which I wrote with my supervisor, Prof Sir John Meurig Thomas.  My colleagues at the Royal Institution helped me create an image that was a scientifically captivating, but Sir John was very particular about the background, layout and orientation. We did not have modern editing software at that time; but the production team created a fantastic front cover, which is still my favourite!

How would you describe the peer review process and interaction with the editorial team at ChemComm?

I think the peer-review process is fair and the editorial team do their best to ensure that an unbiased decision is reached, in case there are conflicting views on a paper.  Author responses to reviewer comments are turned around quickly and I was impressed that the first publication of our accepted article (in this issue) was online within 24 hours.

Could you provide a brief summary of your recent ChemComm publication?

In this paper, we have probed a range of synthetic variables and mapped this to the structural, spectroscopic and textural characteristics of our catalyst, which we have recently developed for the conversion of CO₂ to sustainable marine fuels such as DiMethyl Ether (DME).  Instead of presenting our findings in the traditional manner, as a full paper, we developed a multidimensional correlation matrix, which can concisely and visually show the influence of the synthetic variables on the structural features of the catalyst and how this can impact the overall catalytic performance. The structure-property correlations that can be derived using this approach will enable the rational design of catalysts, thereby reducing laborious, trial and error efforts in the laboratory.  Credit should be given to my PhD student, Maciej Walerowski for leading on this.

In your opinion, what are the next steps or potential areas of research that could build upon the findings in this paper?

We will be extending this approach to some of the other projects that we are currently pursuing and validate the scope and wider potential of the correlation matrix for improved catalyst design.  This could be integrated into the predictive design platform that we have recently developed for the discovery of new and improved catalysts.  The global DME market is set to double to $8.8 billion by 2030 and we will be working closely with the maritime transport sector to meet their ambitious net-zero targets.

Be sure to read Robert’s #OpenAccess article, “Rationalising catalytic performance using a unique correlation matrix” to learn more!

ChemComm is publishing its 60th volume in 2024. Over the past 60 years, ChemComm has been the RSC’s most cited journal, and one of the most trusted venues for rapid publication of short communications. In our anniversary year, we recognise the important contributions ChemComm has made, and continues to make, in advancing the chemical sciences.

As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ve brought together a collection featuring the latest research from some of our most loyal and dedicated authors. From those marking the beginning of their independent academic career by publishing their first article with us, to the rising stars and established leaders publishing in our yearly ‘Emerging Investigators’ and ‘Pioneering Investigators’ collections, this collection champions the contributions of our worldwide author community. We are proud many authors choose to support our journal by regularly publishing their best work with us. This collection also features papers from our ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship winners, and our Outstanding Reviewer awardees, whose invaluable feedback has shaped our published content through the years.

To accompany the collection, we’ll be publishing interviews with contributing authors where they provide further insight into their research and reflect on their journey with ChemComm.

Check out our interview with Professor Bo Jiang (Jiangsu Normal University, China) below!

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Bo Jiang, Professor at Jiangsu Normal University. After graduating with a PhD from Suzhou University in 2010, he joined the School of Chemistry & Materials Science at Jiangsu Normal University. He serves as editorial board members of Chinese Chemical Letters, Chinese Journal of Organic Chemistry, Tetrahedron, Tetrahedron Letters, and other journals. So far, he has published over 200 papers in many journals such as J. Am. Chem. Soc.、Angew. Chem. Int. Ed.、Nat. Commun. etc., which has been cited over 8000 times. He has received many funding projects such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China-Youth Fund and General Projects, and the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province. Moreover, he honors as a young academic leader in the “333 Project” in Jiangsu Province and as a young academic leader in the “Qing Lan Project” of universities in Jiangsu Province. He has won the second prize of Excellent Scientific Research Achievement Award for Higher Education Institutions of the Ministry of Education, the second prize of Science and Technology Award for Jiangsu Province, and the third prize of Science and Technology Research Achievement Award for Higher Education Institutions of Jiangsu Province.

How have you seen ChemComm evolve over the years, and what aspects do you find most noteworthy?

Since I commenced my research in organic synthetic chemistry in 2004, ChemComm has consistently captured my attention. The journal steadfastly upholds the principle of ‘publishing highly innovative research findings within the realm of chemistry and its related sciences,’ showcasing numerous high-impact studies that have significantly influenced the advancement of both chemistry and associated scientific disciplines, thereby greatly fostering progress in chemical science. The editorial team is characterized by professionalism and efficiency, maintaining rigorous quality control over submissions while ensuring prompt processing and providing invaluable expert feedback from reviewers. In 2012, my inaugural research paper published in ChemComm was honored as an outside cover article. My submission experience was exceptionally positive, leaving me with a cherished memory that continues to resonate with me today

What is your favourite thing about ChemComm?

ChemComm boasts a distinguished and extensive history, chronicling over a century of advancements in the field of chemistry. Its content encompasses the entirety of chemical sciences, offering a premier communication platform for professionals within the discipline.

In what way do you think ChemComm stands out among journals in your field?

In my opinion, ChemComm stands out for its high requirements for paper quality, efficient and timely peer review process, effective communication between the editorial team and authors, and fast publication of papers.

Could you provide a brief summary of your recent ChemComm publication?

In this communication, we introduce an asymmetric application of palladium and chiral bisimidazoline ligand catalytic system, achieving asymmetric dearomative Michael addition of polycyclic tropones. This research can provide useful reference and guidance for the asymmetric construction of bridged axially chiral compounds.

Be sure to read Professor Jiang’s article, “Construction of central and axial chirality via Pd(ii)/Bim-catalyzed asymmetric dearomative Michael reaction of polycyclic tropones” to learn more!

ChemComm is publishing its 60th volume in 2024. Over the past 60 years, ChemComm has been the RSC’s most cited journal, and one of the most trusted venues for rapid publication of short communications. In our anniversary year, we recognise the important contributions ChemComm has made, and continues to make, in advancing the chemical sciences.

As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ve brought together a collection featuring the latest research from some of our most loyal and dedicated authors. From those marking the beginning of their independent academic career by publishing their first article with us, to the rising stars and established leaders publishing in our yearly ‘Emerging Investigators’ and ‘Pioneering Investigators’ collections, this collection champions the contributions of our worldwide author community. We are proud many authors choose to support our journal by regularly publishing their best work with us. This collection also features papers from our ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship winners, and our Outstanding Reviewer awardees, whose invaluable feedback has shaped our published content through the years.

To accompany the collection, we’ll be publishing interviews with contributing authors where they provide further insight into their research and reflect on their journey with ChemComm.

Check out our interview with Dr Ignacio Alfonso (Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC), Spain) below!

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Ignacio Alfonso was initially trained as organic chemist at the University of Oviedo in Spain (PhD in 1999). He has worked in top-rated institutions in France (University of Strasbourg, short stay in 1997) and USA (The Scripps Research Institute, postdoc in 2000-2002). After being selected for the prestigious Ramon y Cajal tenure-track contract in 2004 (Universitat Jaume I, Castellón), in 2007 he got a permanent position at IQAC-CSIC in Barcelona, where he created the Supramolecular Chemistry Group that he leads since then. His research interests are supramolecular chemistry, chemical biology, complex dynamic chemical systems and in general all aspects related to the molecular recognition of biorelevant species and the corresponding biomedical applications.

What is your favourite thing about ChemComm?

From my very first steps in science as a researcher, ChemComm has been always one of my favourite multidisciplinary chemistry journals to keep up updated about the most recent findings and results. The concise short communication format in combination with Feature and Highlight articles is an excellent easy-to-read source of recent hot information. Moreover, the very professional work from the editors and reviewers make the publication process soft and extremely rewarding. All in one paying careful attention to the top standards of quality and scientific rigor.

Could you provide a brief summary of your recent ChemComm publication?

My last contribution to ChemComm is a Feature article highlighting our most recent results within the interphase of supramolecular chemistry and chemical biology. My personal evolution as a scientist has brought me to combine my shared interests in these two subdisciplines of chemistry, which actually have many things in common. Supramolecular processes are key in chemical biology and supramolecular chemists are very often inspired by biological systems. Thus, there is a clear potential feedback between the two branches of chemistry that I am intending to reflect in this contribution with a selection of our works and those from others. Different conceptual approaches from more conventional host-guest chemistry to complex systems-inspired approximations are described and somehow compared.

In your opinion, what are the next steps or potential areas of research that could build upon the findings in this paper?

My intention with this manuscript was double. On one hand, I wanted to reflect the main scientific philosophy of the chemical research in our group as a necessary combination of apparently different approaches and subdisciplines to tackle fundamental challenges with potential real-life applications. On the other hand, I would like to facilitate the discussion between two chemistry families (supramolecular and biological) that would mutually benefit from tighter collaboration. As a scientist with experience in both fields, I see clear parallelisms in approaches, techniques, scientific goals and also hurdles. Maybe I was too ambitious with the last objective, but considering the transversality of chemistry and science in general, I strongly believe that borders between disciplines should gradually fade away.

Be sure to read Ignacio’s Open Access Feature article, “Supramolecular chemical biology: designed receptors and dynamic chemical systems” to learn more!

ChemComm is publishing its 60th volume in 2024. Over the past 60 years, ChemComm has been the RSC’s most cited journal, and one of the most trusted venues for rapid publication of short communications. In our anniversary year, we recognise the important contributions ChemComm has made, and continues to make, in advancing the chemical sciences.

As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ve brought together a collection featuring the latest research from some of our most loyal and dedicated authors. From those marking the beginning of their independent academic career by publishing their first article with us, to the rising stars and established leaders publishing in our yearly ‘Emerging Investigators’ and ‘Pioneering Investigators’ collections, this collection champions the contributions of our worldwide author community. We are proud many authors choose to support our journal by regularly publishing their best work with us. This collection also features papers from our ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship winners, and our Outstanding Reviewer awardees, whose invaluable feedback has shaped our published content through the years.

To accompany the collection, we’ll be publishing interviews with contributing authors where they provide further insight into their research and reflect on their journey with ChemComm.

Check out our interview with Professor Drew Evans (University of South Australia, Australia) below!

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Drew Evans is a Professor and Professorial Lead in the Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia.  A physical chemist by training (PhD, Australian National University, 2006), he currently leads a team in materials engineering. Drew has experience working in private industry and has spent the past decade working at the intersection of academic research and industry.  His research focuses on enhancing the performance and manufacturability of thin film coatings, in particular organic conductors and semiconductors.

What is your favourite thing about ChemComm?

ChemComm remains one of the best peer-reviewed chemistry journals to find out the latest advances in our field. I know that I can direct my staff and students to read the latest and greatest research, and trust that it is robust and topical without added hype.

How would you describe the peer review process and interaction with the editorial team at ChemComm?

The peer-review process at ChemComm is excellent.  The editors are experts in the field and engage with the corresponding author in a concise and frequent manner.  The reviewers always have constructive feedback to strengthen the manuscript. This makes the sometimes daunting process of peer-review much less stressful – especially when mentoring emerging researchers through the process.

Are there ways in which the journal can further support and engage with future generations of scientists?

ChemComm does a great job of supporting future generations through their themed issues that highlight up and coming researchers across the globe.

Could you provide a brief summary of your recent ChemComm publication?

Our recent publication in ChemComm reports on recent observations we made on thin films of perovskite semiconductors. Our team has expertise and experience in analysing materials using photoelectron spectroscopy. We decided to study thin films of the perovskite semiconductor CsPbBr3 using both x-ray and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy, specifically to do depth profiling through the thickness. To our surprise we discovered that the stoichiometry and (valence and conduction band) energy levels varied across the thickness – which have long assumed to be constant. The energy levels we report indicate that charge carriers generated within the perovskite semiconductor won’t simply transport to the electrodes under a constant electric field. In some cases, these charges may be trapped within the device.

In your opinion, what are the next steps or potential areas of research that could build upon the findings in this paper?

Perovskite semiconductors are an emerging material used in next generation solar cells.  These perovskite solar cells are touted as the disruptive technology to displace silicon cells in many applications.  In our study, we deposited the perovskite thin films using the widely popular two-step coating process used to make these thin film solar cells. The anisotropy we see through the thickness of the film has implications for how charge is generated and transported within the solar cell itself.  It is our hope that reporting our observations will help chemists develop perovskite semiconductors with desirable through thickness properties to yield even better solar cells in the future.

		Yanting Yinis a research fellow from Future Industries Institute at the University of South Australia. After his completion of PhD at Flinders University in 2019, he has worked as research associate in Flinders University for 3.5 years on sustainable energy related projects including solar thermal and photocatalysis. From 2023, he has been working at UniSA on the project focused on harvesting energy from novel voltaic devices. His expertise encompasses materials characterisation, photovoltaics devices and energetic devices based on industrial-related projects.
Laura Garcia-Quintana is a Research Fellow at the Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia. She is a chemist graduate, with a Master’s degree in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, completing her PhD in Materials Engineering at Deakin University in 2021. While she started her career undertaking fundamental science, Laura is now more focused on translating that fundamental science into commercial products by getting more involved with industry-focused projects since 2022. Laura’s field of interest has always been energy related, from different chemistries for batteries to renewable energy devices.
		Dr. Alexandra Chapsky is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Adelaide’s Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS). She is a Medical Physics graduate, who completed her PhD at the University of Adelaide in 2020. Since joining IPAS, her research specialises in environmental luminescence and fluorescence spectroscopy, with contributions to the development of a portable, non-contact, fluorescence-based mineral sensor. Dr. Chapsky also has experience with X-ray diffraction (XRD) sampling; enabling her to analyse various materials and contributes to advancements in environmental sensing and safety technologies.
Marta Llusca is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of South Australia’s Future Industries Institute. She is a physics graduate and has a Master’s degree in Physical Engineering. She completed her PhD in Materials Science / Applied Physics at the University of Barcelona in 2015 and she joined UniSA as a postdoctoral researcher in 2016. Since then, she has been working on high impact, industry-focused projects, undertaking fundamental science, and translating research into commercial products through meeting milestones under tight schedules. Marta’s research encompasses the engineering of surfaces via the application of thin film coatings, and extends to applications in the optical, automotive, defence, and renewable energy industry sectors.

Be sure to read the team’s full Communication, “Through thickness anisotropy in all inorganic perovskite thin films via two-step synthesis: implications for voltaic devices” to learn more!

ChemComm is publishing its 60th volume in 2024. Over the past 60 years, ChemComm has been the RSC’s most cited journal, and one of the most trusted venues for rapid publication of short communications. In our anniversary year, we recognise the important contributions ChemComm has made, and continues to make, in advancing the chemical sciences.

As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ve brought together a collection featuring the latest research from some of our most loyal and dedicated authors. From those marking the beginning of their independent academic career by publishing their first article with us, to the rising stars and established leaders publishing in our yearly ‘Emerging Investigators’ and ‘Pioneering Investigators’ collections, this collection champions the contributions of our worldwide author community. We are proud many authors choose to support our journal by regularly publishing their best work with us. This collection also features papers from our ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship winners, and our Outstanding Reviewer awardees, whose invaluable feedback has shaped our published content through the years.

To accompany the collection, we’ll be publishing interviews with contributing authors where they provide further insight into their research and reflect on their journey with ChemComm.

Check out our interview with Professor Sheng-Heng Chung (National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan) below!

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Sheng-Heng Chung earned his B.S. and M.S. degrees from National Cheng Kung University and National Tsing Hua University, respectively. He completed his Ph.D. at The University of Texas at Austin under the guidance of Professor Arumugam Manthiram. Following his doctoral studies, he worked as a postdoctoral researcher and research associate in Manthiram’s group during 2015 and 2016. In 2019, he joined National Cheng Kung University and is currently an Associate Professor. His research focuses on lithium–sulfur electrochemical batteries, lithium-ion battery technology, and electrochemical energy storage and conversion, with an emphasis on materials, components, and devices. His emerging research group has made notable strides, beginning with an independent research article in ChemComm Milestone and advancing to a feature article in CC 60th Anniversary Collection.

How have you seen ChemComm evolve over the years, and what aspects do you find most noteworthy?

ChemComm has evolved by consistently selecting innovative research across a wide range of fields and highlighting significant breakthroughs. This focus on cutting-edge developments has been instrumental for our group, inspiring new ideas and advancing our work in energy storage and battery research.

What is your favourite thing about ChemComm?

ChemComm encourages authors to distill their novel studies into concise 4-page main articles. This format helps authors refine the essence of their research, facilitating further exploration and development. This format helps readers quickly grasp the key findings and breakthroughs, while more detailed information is available in the supporting materials.

In what ways do you think ChemComm stands out among other journals in your field?

ChemComm stands out by showcasing innovative research and key breakthroughs across diverse fields. Its format, featuring concise 4-page articles, enables authors to present essential findings clearly, facilitating further research. This approach benefits both researchers by inspiring new ideas and readers by providing quick access to core discoveries.

How would you describe the peer review process and interaction with the editorial team at ChemComm?

As an author, ChemComm offers a swift review process with rigorous selection criteria. It’s rewarding to see novel research recognized, and the process also highlights areas needing further development. As a reviewer, ChemComm features cutting-edge manuscripts and provides comprehensive support to facilitate detailed and constructive feedback.

Are there ways in which the journal can further support and engage with future generations of scientists?

ChemComm selects research articles featuring the latest ideas across various fields. Curating a special issue on novel concepts within a specific area could provide researchers with a wealth of fresh, recognized ideas relevant to their field.

Could you provide a brief summary of your recent ChemComm publication?

In our Feature Article, “Progress on Critical Cell-Fabrication Parameters and Designs for Advanced Lithium–Sulfur Batteries,” we review key advancements in lithium–sulfur battery research from 2018 to 2024. We summarize crucial criteria for cell-fabrication parameters and battery-electrochemical performance. We further highlight how recent developments achieve these criteria with novel material and cell-configuration designs, while also identifying ongoing challenges and potential solutions.

In your opinion, what are the next steps or potential areas of research that could build upon the findings in this paper?

In our Feature Article, we propose several designs for advancing lithium–sulfur cells with high energy density. Based on emerging research methods, we anticipate challenges such as high resistance of active materials in solid state, low ionic conductivity of polysulfide catholytes, premature precipitation of liquid-state polysulfides, high interface impedance, and rapid degradation of thin lithium metal anodes. Addressing these issues could inspire innovative solutions and further research in the field.

Be sure to read Sheng-Heng’s Open Access Feature article, “Progress on critical cell fabrication parameters and designs for advanced lithium–sulfur batteries” to learn more!

ChemComm is publishing its 60th volume in 2024. Over the past 60 years, ChemComm has been the RSC’s most cited journal, and one of the most trusted venues for rapid publication of short communications. In our anniversary year, we recognise the important contributions ChemComm has made, and continues to make, in advancing the chemical sciences.

As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ve brought together a collection featuring the latest research from some of our most loyal and dedicated authors. From those marking the beginning of their independent academic career by publishing their first article with us, to the rising stars and established leaders publishing in our yearly ‘Emerging Investigators’ and ‘Pioneering Investigators’ collections, this collection champions the contributions of our worldwide author community. We are proud many authors choose to support our journal by regularly publishing their best work with us. This collection also features papers from our ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship winners, and our Outstanding Reviewer awardees, whose invaluable feedback has shaped our published content through the years.

To accompany the collection, we’ll be publishing interviews with contributing authors where they provide further insight into their research and reflect on their journey with ChemComm.

Check out our interview with Professor Matt Allen (Wayne State University, USA) below!

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Matthew (Matt) Allen is currently a Professor of Chemistry and Chair of the Chemistry Department at Wayne State University (WSU). Matt earned a B.S. in Chemistry from Purdue University, during which time he was also an intern at Eli Lilly. He earned a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the California Institute of Technology while on a National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship. He was a National Institutes of Health postdoctoral fellow at the University of Wisconsin–Madison prior to joining WSU as an Assistant Professor in 2008. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 2013 and Professor in 2016. He has served as Chair of the Chemistry Department since 2016. Matt’s research program involves the aqueous chemistry of the lanthanides and he has co-authored over 100 publications. He has served as a member of the Imaging Probes and Contrast Agents study section for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the editorial advisory board for the ACS journal Inorganic Chemistry. He is a fellow of the American Chemical Society (ACS) and of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

What is your favourite thing about ChemComm?

I love the concise nature of the communications as well as the broad range of topics. I learn something new each time I scroll through an issue without investing a ton of time (which there never seems to be enough of).

How would you describe the peer review process and interaction with the editorial team at ChemComm?

The peer review process is helpful and the editorial team is professional and easy to work with. Even when I receive several critiques (which can be frustrating at first), I enjoy seeing the evolution of science through the critique and response process, which usually leads to improved articles, so I am extremely grateful to reviewers for their time.

Are there ways in which the journal can further support and engage with future generations of scientists?

My kids love watching other people play Minecraft on YouTube. When their generation grows up, they might want to see some sort of walkthrough of papers like Craftee walks through Minecraft mods.

Could you provide a brief summary of your recent ChemComm publication?

This article is a review of the chemistry of europium with a specific focus on how coordination chemistry can be used to tune the properties of both Eu(II) and Eu(III). We center the discussion around how that tuning is relevant to application in magnetic resonance imaging, luminescence, catalysis, and separations.

In your opinion, what are the next steps or potential areas of research that could build upon the findings in this paper?

I think there are many of next possible areas of research that could build upon what we describe in this paper. What comes to mind first is further using coordination chemistry to kinetically inhibit oxidation of divalent europium in aerated solutions so enable delivery in vivo. Also, recycling and separations of lanthanides, including europium, is an important area of future study for modern society.

Be sure to read Matt’s Open Access Feature article, “Europium(ii/iii) coordination chemistry toward applications” to learn more!

ChemComm is publishing its 60th volume in 2024. Over the past 60 years, ChemComm has been the RSC’s most cited journal, and one of the most trusted venues for rapid publication of short communications. In our anniversary year, we recognise the important contributions ChemComm has made, and continues to make, in advancing the chemical sciences.

As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ve brought together a collection featuring the latest research from some of our most loyal and dedicated authors. From those marking the beginning of their independent academic career by publishing their first article with us, to the rising stars and established leaders publishing in our yearly ‘Emerging Investigators’ and ‘Pioneering Investigators’ collections, this collection champions the contributions of our worldwide author community. We are proud many authors choose to support our journal by regularly publishing their best work with us. This collection also features papers from our ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship winners, and our Outstanding Reviewer awardees, whose invaluable feedback has shaped our published content through the years.

To accompany the collection, we’ll be publishing interviews with contributing authors where they provide further insight into their research and reflect on their journey with ChemComm.

Check out our interview with Dr Mingxu You (University of Massachusetts Amherst, USA) below!

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Dr. Mingxu You is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.  He received a B.S. in Chemistry from Peking University in 2008, and a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Florida in 2012 under the supervision of Prof. Weihong Tan.  Dr. You further pursued postdoctoral research with Prof. Samie R. Jaffrey at Weill Cornell Medicine and later started his own laboratory at UMass Amherst in 2016.  His lab is now applying nature’s building blocks, DNA/RNA, to develop next-generation platforms for disease diagnostics and therapy.  Dr. You is best known for his development of RNA-based fluorescent sensors for intracellular imaging, as well as DNA-based tools for mechanical force and dynamic molecular interaction measurement on living cell surfaces.  Dr. You has been recognized in several awards, including the Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellow, Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar, NIH MIRA, NSF CAREER, and ACS Burlew award.  In addition, he has been recognized as an Emerging Investigator in journals such as Analytical Methods, Supramolecular Chemistry, Frontiers in Chemistry, Nanoscale, and ChemComm

In what ways do you think ChemComm stands out among other journals in your field?

I think the long-history reputation and high-quality publications really make ChemComm a journal of choice for many chemists like me!  Compared to many journals that become to prefer publishing long articles, ChemComm sticks to the focus on short 4-page communications, which ensures easy reading and publishing of new and urgent scientific discoveries.

How would you describe the peer review process and interaction with the editorial team at ChemComm?

I have enjoyed the quality of the review reports and speed of editing for my several papers published at ChemComm.  I can tell the reviewers are real experts in the field who can provide in-depth comments on the significance and potential pitfalls of the work.

Are there ways in which the journal can further support and engage with future generations of scientists?

I was quite honored to be recognized as an Emerging Investigator by ChemComm three years ago. In addition to this honor, I have quite enjoyed the chance that ChemComm provided to present a webinar, which did attract the attention of many audiences throughout the world. I feel this kind of recognition and support, maybe also including even younger investigators like postdocs, can be highly appreciated by future generations of scientists.

Could you provide a brief summary of your recent ChemComm publication?

Our most recent ChemComm publication is a review paper about DNA-based nanoscale tools that can regulate cell membrane protein dimerization and/or oligomerization.  This is an exciting emerging field with many recent progresses in the design of versatile DNA nanostructures and nanodevices that can very precisely modulate the distance, interaction patterns, and dynamics of different surface receptor proteins in situ in living systems.  Starting with some in vitro demonstrations a decade ago, the field has now begun to demonstrate real in vivo functions and great biomedical potentials.  I feel really excited and would like to have this review to encourage more people with diverse backgrounds of chemistry, molecular engineering, nanotechnology, and cell biology, etc., to join this emerging field of study.

Be sure to read Mingxu’s article, “DNA-modulated dimerization and oligomerization of cell membrane receptors” to learn more!

ChemComm is publishing its 60th volume in 2024. Over the past 60 years, ChemComm has been the RSC’s most cited journal, and one of the most trusted venues for rapid publication of short communications. In our anniversary year, we recognise the important contributions ChemComm has made, and continues to make, in advancing the chemical sciences.

As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ve brought together a collection featuring the latest research from some of our most loyal and dedicated authors. From those marking the beginning of their independent academic career by publishing their first article with us, to the rising stars and established leaders publishing in our yearly ‘Emerging Investigators’ and ‘Pioneering Investigators’ collections, this collection champions the contributions of our worldwide author community. We are proud many authors choose to support our journal by regularly publishing their best work with us. This collection also features papers from our ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship winners, and our Outstanding Reviewer awardees, whose invaluable feedback has shaped our published content through the years.

To accompany the collection, we’ll be publishing interviews with contributing authors where they provide further insight into their research and reflect on their journey with ChemComm.

Check out our interview with Professor Seung Uk Son (Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea) below!

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Prof. Seung Uk Son received his Ph.D. in organometallic chemistry from Seoul National University, South Korea. After completing postdoctoral research in nanomaterials under Prof. Taeghwan Hyeon at Seoul National University and conducting visiting faculty research in supramolecular chemistry with Prof. D. A. Sweigart at Brown University, he joined the Chemistry Department of Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) in South Korea as an assistant professor and has been working there since 2005. His current research interests focus on the development of functional organic-inorganic materials for sustainable chemistry and energy applications.

How have you seen ChemComm evolve over the years, and what aspects do you find most noteworthy?

Reflecting the changes in the scientific community, such as shifts in research topics and publication styles, I believe that ChemComm has strived to maintain its original philosophy (in my subjective thinking): publishing first and novel findings in chemistry.

What is your favourite thing about ChemComm?

I appreciate ChemComm’s philosophy (in my subjective thinking), which emphasizes new findings rather than focusing solely on world-best record performance.

In what ways do you think ChemComm stands out among other journals in your field?

In materials chemistry, I feel that scientists often compete on performance records of functional materials without necessarily introducing new scientific principles. I feel that ChemComm maintains an open mind toward new approaches and the discovery of scientific principles, even when they are in incomplete stages.

How would you describe the peer review process and interaction with the editorial team at ChemComm?

I found that the peer review process at ChemComm is both fast and fair. I believe the editorial team operates in a fair and reasonable manner, particularly in adjudicative reviewing cases

Are there ways in which the journal can further support and engage with future generations of scientists?

I believe that continuing to invite young editors and making editorial efforts to increase the impact factor will be crucial in encouraging young scientists to submit their manuscripts to ChemComm.

Could you provide a brief summary of your recent ChemComm publication?

Recently, replacing petroleum-based polymers with biomass-based ones has become an important subject. Additionally, managing energy with chemical materials is crucial. Our recent ChemComm paper reports the synthesis of biomass-derived polyurethanes for harvesting triboelectric energy.

In your opinion, what are the next steps or potential areas of research that could build upon the findings in this paper?

I believe that non-petroleum-based artificial polymers and their energy applications could become a prominent and active research field.

Be sure to read Professor Son’s article, “Polyurethanes synthesized using biomass-derived furan diols as sustainable triboelectric materials” to learn more!

ChemComm is publishing its 60th volume in 2024. Over the past 60 years, ChemComm has been the RSC’s most cited journal, and one of the most trusted venues for rapid publication of short communications. In our anniversary year, we recognise the important contributions ChemComm has made, and continues to make, in advancing the chemical sciences.

As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ve brought together a collection featuring the latest research from some of our most loyal and dedicated authors. From those marking the beginning of their independent academic career by publishing their first article with us, to the rising stars and established leaders publishing in our yearly ‘Emerging Investigators’ and ‘Pioneering Investigators’ collections, this collection champions the contributions of our worldwide author community. We are proud many authors choose to support our journal by regularly publishing their best work with us. This collection also features papers from our ChemComm Emerging Investigator Lectureship winners, and our Outstanding Reviewer awardees, whose invaluable feedback has shaped our published content through the years.

To accompany the collection, we’ll be publishing interviews with contributing authors where they provide further insight into their research and reflect on their journey with ChemComm.

Check out our interview with Professor Naoyuki Shimada (Nihon University, Japan) below!

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Naoyuki Shimada obtained B.Eng. in 2001, and M.Eng. in 2003 from Nihon University under the guidance of Prof. Shoichi Shimizu. He received Ph.D. in 2007 from Hokkaido University under the supervision of Prof. Shunichi Hashimoto. Following his doctoral studies, he worked as a Research Associate and an Assistant Professor at Hokkaido University. In 2009 he joined Prof. Tius’s Research Group at University of Hawaii at Manoa as a Postdoctoral Researcher. He returned to Japan in 2011, taking a position as Assistant Professor at Kitasato University, where he was promoted as a Junior Associate Professor in 2019. In 2022, He moved to the Department of Chemistry, Nihon University as a Principal Investigator. Dr. Shimada has several prestigious awards, including Kaneka Award in Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Japan, Pharmaceutical Society of Japan Division of Organic Chemistry Award, and UBE Young Researcher Award. His research focuses on the development of organic reactions using organoboron catalysts and its application to the synthesis of biological molecules.

How have you seen ChemComm evolve over the years, and what aspects do you find most noteworthy?

ChemComm has consistently published short communications of highly novel, high-level research in the field of general chemistry, both in the past and present. The various Themed Collections offered by ChemComm serve as important resources about research fields and researchers.

What is your favourite thing about ChemComm?

What I appreciate most about ChemComm is how highly novel research is concisely summarized in a format suitable for a communications journal. This makes it extremely accessible and helps readers stay informed about the latest trends in the field.

In what ways do you think ChemComm stands out among other journals in your field?

ChemComm’s strength lies in its 60-year tradition and authority as the RSC’s leading communications journal in general chemistry. Despite the emergence of many new academic journals in recent years, ChemComm has maintained its status as a respected platform for novel research.

How would you describe the peer review process and interaction with the editorial team at ChemComm?

The insightful comments from ChemComm’s excellent reviewers significantly enhance the quality of submitted manuscripts. The editorial team’s decisions are fair and impartial. ChemComm’s reliability is upheld by the rigorous data verification conducted by both the editorial team and expert reviewers. The rapid peer-review process and the visibility of review stages through RSC’s Manuscript Tracker are invaluable to researchers.

Are there ways in which the journal can further support and engage with future generations of scientists?

ChemComm provides valuable opportunities for researchers at all career stages. Initiatives such as ChemComm Milestones, Emerging Investigators, Pioneering Investigators, and the ChemComm Blog are great examples of how the journal encourages researchers. I hope ChemComm will continue to focus on and support young scientists in the field of chemistry.

Could you provide a brief summary of your recent ChemComm publication?

Amides and peptides are key chemical structure found in many pharmaceuticals. The catalytic dehydrative condensation reaction between readily available carboxylic acids and amines is the most efficient and direct method for synthesizing amides and peptides. This Feature Article reviews the progress made in developing organoboron-catalyzed dehydrative condensation reactions for amide and peptide bond formation from 1996 to 2023, including our recent development of a diboronic acid anhydride (DBAA)-catalyzed reaction.

In your opinion, what are the next steps or potential areas of research that could build upon the findings in this paper?

As highlighted in the Feature Article, significant progress has been made in organoboron-catalyzed dehydrative amide and peptide bond formation, thanks to research into new reaction mechanisms and novel catalysts. However, to further advance this field, we need catalysts that can operate under mild conditions, with low catalyst loadings, and without additives. We anticipate the development of such innovative catalysts in the near future.

Be sure to read Naoyuki’s Open Access Feature article, “Organoboron catalysis for direct amide/peptide bond formation” to learn more!