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To mark the occasion of Nature Chemistry turning 10 years old, we asked scientists working in different areas of chemistry to tell us what they thought the most exciting, interesting or challenging aspects related to the development of their main field of research will be — here is what they said.
Quantum computers potentially offer a faster way to calculate chemical properties, but the exact implications of this speed-up have only become clear over the last year. The first quantum computers are likely to enable calculations that cannot be performed classically, which might reform quantum chemistry — but we should not expect a revolution.
To celebrate Nature Chemistry turning five years old, editors past and present each share the story of a paper that, for one reason or another, stands out from all the others they have shepherded into the journal.
With energy swiftly rising to the top of the world's agenda, Harry B. Gray at the California Institute of Technology looks at how chemistry can help to harness the power of the Sun to meet the world's energy needs.
Chemistry has a central role in science, and synthesis has a central role in chemistry. Ryoji Noyori from Nagoya University considers where synthetic chemists should focus their efforts.
Mark A. Johnson at Yale University discusses how the two sides of physical chemistry have necessarily developed together, and looks at how their synergy dictates the direction of contemporary research.
The foundations of science are built on the ability to make sensitive, precise measurements. Gary M. Hieftje from Indiana University, Bloomington, considers how analytical instruments and methods are being developed to meet tomorrow's needs.
If syntheses and structures can be more easily predicted, what will it mean for inorganic chemistry? Achim Müller of the University of Bielefeld looks into his (quasi)crystal ball.
The way forward for a field in its infancy is to focus on complexity and integrated systems that may lead to emergent phenomena, suggests J. Fraser Stoddart at Northwestern University.
Understanding the mysteries of life has always been a driving force in scientific research; Barbara Imperiali from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology reflects on the infinite opportunities for chemists at the biology interface.
Diminishing fossil fuel reserves, hazardous chemicals and wasteful processes have led to the emergence of 'green' technologies; James H. Clark at the University of York considers how metals, materials and organic compounds can be prepared by clean and sustainable routes.
