Professor Sarpong is interested in developing creative ways to make classes of molecules called natural products. These are compounds that are produced by microbes and the vast flora and fauna on earth. They have been the basis for many medicines – such as penicillin and avermectin – and so through their chemical synthesis, they could set the stage for understanding the biological processes that are at the route of diseases but also the cures for various diseases. He explains: "To make these molecules, we serve as the chemical architects, carpenters, and masons. We design the best approaches and execute our plan in the laboratory. Sometimes, we have to fashion our own tools to accomplish our goals. Many times, this exercise leads to unexpected discoveries in the laboratory and our work also provides a platform to teach and train the next generation that will forge ahead with even more spectacular discoveries."
On receiving the prize, Professor Sarpong said, "I am honoured and humbled to be recognised by this award. It is a testament to the creativity, passion, and hard work of all my coworkers. I am simply a representative of their efforts. From my humble beginnings in Ghana, West Africa, I would have never imagined that such an achievement was possible. I hope that in some small way, it can inspire others like me to reach for the highest highs."
The Pedler Prize is one of the Royal Society of Chemistry's Research & Innovation Prizes, given in celebration of exceptional people advancing the chemical sciences across industry and academia.
Dr. Helen Pain, CEO of the Royal Society of Chemistry, said, "Chemistry and chemists are everywhere in daily life and in our society, and our prizes reflect that depth and diversity. Our Research & Innovation prize winners include teams and individuals, professors and apprentices, as well as people from all around the world and in a wide range of roles and sectors. Each person's contribution plays a vital role in advancing human knowledge and bettering the world that we all live in.
"I extend my warmest congratulations. Winning an RSC Prize is a remarkable achievement. You join the ranks of a star-studded roster stretching back over 150 years, including several dozen who went on to win Nobel Prizes. Our winners are exceptional role models for our communities, and we're so pleased to be celebrating such an extraordinary cohort this year."
The full suite of RSC Prizes comprises Volunteer Recognition Prizes, Research & Innovation Prizes, Education Prizes (announced in November), the Inclusion & Diversity Prize, and the Horizon Prizes – team prizes given to scientific collaborations innovating and conducting cutting edge research at the frontiers of chemistry.
Find out more at rsc.li/prizes