Reminiscence Messages

Today, we gather to honor the life and legacy of an extraordinary individual, Professor Sir Fraser Stoddart.

First, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Professor Stoddart’s family, who are not able to join us today. The grief of losing a loved one is immeasurable, and we share in your sorrow.

Professor Stoddart’s journey was remarkable. Driven by immense curiosity and unwavering determination, he made groundbreaking strides in the development of molecular machines. These structures, a thousand times smaller than a human hair, have unveiled a world of unlimited possibilities. His work, along with that of Professor Jean-Pierre Sauvage and Professor Bernard L. Feringa, was globally recognized with the 2016 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

But his genius extended beyond nanotechnology. He co-founded H2MOF, a company aimed at addressing the challenges of hydrogen storage and transportation, thus enabling the use of hydrogen as a clean energy source. He even ventured into the skincare industry, introducing a brand that utilized porous organic nano vessels to enhance product efficiency.

Although Professor Stoddart worked at The University of Hong Kong for a brief period, his dedication to enhancing our scientific exploration was evident. Upon his appointment, he demonstrated his commitment to fostering a productive research environment by setting up a state-of-the-art laboratory. His efforts in coordinating academic hiring, guiding research projects, and assisting in grant applications have played a key role in maintaining our Faculty’s focus on discovery and innovation, and his influence will continue to resonate in our endeavors.

Professor Stoddart was not just a brilliant scientist; he was a mentor, a visionary, and an inspiration to us all, particularly to the younger generation. He was a firm believer in thinking differently, collaborating, and respecting diverse viewpoints. As he stated in his first interview at HKU, “I look upon my role as a professor to be more about mentoring and helping young people to come up with fresh ideas and fulfill their ambitions in their research endeavors.” He viewed his students not merely as pupils but as partners in discovery. In his Nobel interview, he underscored this philosophy, saying, “I am going to fashion something that is new”, and “I’m going to make it possible for young people, with amazing talent, to express their creativity”. His legacy will forever be remembered in the countless students whose potential he inspired and unlocked.

Today, as we remember Professor Stoddart, we feel a profound sense of loss. But we also celebrate and be proud of his life and great contributions to the scientific community. Let’s honor his memory by continuing to seek knowledge, challenge the status quo, and pursue innovation, just as he did in his entire career. His spirit will echo through the halls of HKU, in the minds of his students, and in the scientific breakthroughs that build upon his discoveries. His legacy will inspire future generations of scientists and forever be remembered by the scientific community.

Professor Stoddart, you may no longer be with us, but your impact will never fade. You have left an enduring mark on the world, and for that, we are forever grateful. We will miss you dearly.

 — Professor Qiang Zhou
Dean of Science

Chair Professor of School of Biological Sciences

The University of Hong Kong

 

We have been engaged at symposia and meetings all over the world for decades. Fond memories of a passionate scientist and fine person. My personal memories at this moment go also back to Mrs Stoddart whom I also met at so many occasions. 

 

Fraser was indeed a great friend, a bit like an elder brother to me with always very valuable advice, a passionate chemist. His creativity and dedication and in particular his support for students and young scholars is an example to all of us. Many of the young scientists will benefit their entire career  from the enthusiasm and spirit he brought to them. I personally also shared the common background growing up as a farmer boy and we often discussed precious moments from our youth at the farm. His legacy and name are eternal in the world of science and scholarship.

 — Professor Ben L Feringa
University of Groningen, one of the co-winners of Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2016 with Professor Stoddart