David MacMillan

David MacMillan, born on March 16, 1968, is a distinguished Scottish chemist renowned for his contributions to the field of chemistry. Currently, he holds the prestigious position of James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor of Chemistry at Princeton University. His leadership was further exemplified during his tenure as chair of the Department of Chemistry from 2010 to 2015.

In 2021, MacMillan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, sharing this honor with fellow chemist Benjamin List. Their groundbreaking work on the development of asymmetric organocatalysis has significantly advanced the field, showcasing the potential of organocatalysts in various chemical reactions.

Beyond his academic achievements, MacMillan has demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy. He utilized his share of the Nobel Prize, amounting to one million one hundred forty thousand dollars, to establish the May and Billy MacMillan Foundation, aimed at supporting scientific research and education.