Leigh David

Leigh David is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Manchester, holding the Sir Samuel Hall Chair since 2014. Previously, he held prestigious roles such as the Forbes Chair of Organic Chemistry at the University of Edinburgh (2001–2012) and Chair of Synthetic Chemistry at the University of Warwick (1998–2001). His research focuses on synthetic molecular machines, supramolecular chemistry, and molecular knots, with notable contributions to the design of molecular motors and catenanes.

David earned a BSc (Special Honours) and PhD in Chemistry from the University of Sheffield (1981–1987). He conducted postdoctoral research at the National Research Council of Canada (1987–1989) before joining the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, where he advanced from Lecturer (1989–1996) to Readership (1996–1998).

His research interests include developing synthetic strategies for molecular-scale machines, exploring applications in nanotechnology, and investigating dynamic covalent chemistry. Key areas involve creating molecular knots, interlocked structures, and systems capable of programmable motion.

David has received numerous accolades, including the Royal Society Bakerian Medal (2013), ERC Advanced Grants (2008, 2014), and the Feynman Prize for Nanotechnology (2007). His work has been recognized globally through fellowships in the Royal Society (2009) and Royal Society of Edinburgh (2005).

He leads a research group advancing molecular robotics and has secured major grants, such as the EPSRC Senior Research Fellowship (2005–2010). His lab focuses on translating molecular systems into functional devices with applications in materials science and biotechnology.