Nobel laureate Sir Fraser Stoddart, a distinguished figure in nanoscience and organic chemistry, passed away on December 30 at the age of 82. Stoddart was a Board of Trustees Professor at Northwestern University and made significant contributions to the field by introducing the mechanical bond into chemical compounds, which opened new avenues in chemistry over the past three decades.

His pioneering work in molecular recognition and self-assembly led to innovative methods for creating mechanically interlocked molecules, transforming how chemists approach soft materials. Throughout his career, Stoddart mentored over 500 graduate and postdoctoral students globally, forming lasting relationships with many.

"Fraser was a giant in fields of nanoscience and organic chemistry," said Northwestern President Michael Schill. "He was incredibly generous with his time and mentored so many students and faculty."

Omar Faha, chair of Northwestern's Chemistry Department, highlighted Stoddart's role as a mentor: "His contributions to our community went far beyond his accolades."

Stoddart received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2016 alongside Jean-Pierre Sauvage and Bernard L. Feringa for their work on molecular machines. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences recognized them for developing molecules capable of performing tasks when energy is added.

Stoddart's research included advancements in molecular electronics using nanoscale molecules as switches for memory chips. He also developed artificial molecular switches for targeted drug delivery systems.

In 2007, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to chemistry and molecular nanotechnology. A native of Edinburgh, Scotland, he received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Royal Medal from the Duke of Edinburgh.

Northwestern nanoscientist Chad Mirkin remarked on Stoddart's impact: "He is a big part of the 'rise of Northwestern' story."

Will Dichtel, one of Stoddart’s former postdoctoral researchers at UCLA before moving to Northwestern, reflected on his mentorship: "Underlying his considerable accolades was an endlessly supportive and caring mentor."

Before joining Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, Stoddart held positions at UCLA as Fred Kavli Chair in Nanosystems Sciences and director of the California NanoSystems Institute. His academic journey began with degrees from the University of Edinburgh followed by roles at Queen’s University in Ontario and England’s University of Sheffield.

Sir Fraser Stoddart is survived by two daughters—Fiona McCubbin from Belmont, Massachusetts; Alison Stoddart from Cambridge—and five grandchildren. His wife Norma preceded him in death.