Emeritus Professor David Black AO Awarded UNSW Honorary Doctorate
Prof. Black awarded Doctor of Science, honoris causa for eminent service to organic chemistry and UNSW.
Published on the 12 December 2024 by Justine Meloy
We are pleased to announce the award of an Honorary Doctorate of Science to Emeritus Professor David Black AO, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to organic chemistry, the global science research ecosystem, and UNSW.
David Black’s career has been marked by groundbreaking research and leadership. His work in the fields of heterocyclic chemistry, coordination chemistry, and natural products has significantly advanced our understanding of organic chemistry. Notably, his research into key biosynthetic pathways laid the foundation for the development of biomimicry-based synthetic chemistry – the attempt to mimic a proposed biological pathway – which has led to the creation of novel drug molecules now in clinical trials.
A prolific researcher, David has published more than 310 papers and received numerous prestigious awards, including the Rennie, Smith, Birch, and Leighton Medals from the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI). He was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2012 for his services to organic and heterocyclic chemistry through leadership roles within professional organisations, and as an educator and mentor.
David’s longstanding affiliation with UNSW began in 1983, when he was appointed Chair of Organic Chemistry. His contributions to the university have been immense, including his tenure as Acting Dean of Science and Head of the School of Chemistry. Today, he remains a respected member of the UNSW Emeriti community.
David’s global influence is equally profound, having served as Secretary General of both The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) and the International Council for Science, as well as contributing to scientific development in Malaysia and Indonesia.
The Honorary Doctorate reflects David Black’s extraordinary achievements and lasting impact on both the scientific community and UNSW. We congratulate, David, on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for delivering an inspirational graduation address, encouraging science graduates to think globally, actively seek opportunities, and be brave enough to follow what excites them.