Congratulations to Dr. Emily Cranston on receiving the 2023 Rutherford Memorial Medal in Chemistry!
About Emily’s Research
As the President’s Excellence Chair in Forest Bio-products, and Professor in UBC’s Departments of Wood Science and Chemical and Biological Engineering, Emily’s research focuses on sustainable nanocomposites and hybrid materials from cellulose and other biopolymers. Featured in top journals, her work has significantly impacted the broad scientific community, driving eco-friendly material innovation towards a greener future.
“We are not just replacing plastics — designing functional new materials from natural resources will also contribute to improved health, through developments in food, cosmetics, biomedical and pharmaceutical products,” said Cranston. “This research is particularly important for Canada — we have a lot of trees and with nanocellulose, you only need a tiny amount to enhance existing materials or create entirely new ones.”
About The Rutherford Memorial Medals
The Rutherford Memorial Medals were established in 1980 by the RSC in memory of Lord Rutherford of Nelson, a great scientist and a leader in nuclear research. The medals are awarded annually to individuals who have done outstanding research during the formative stages of their careers in any branch of physics and chemistry.