Martyn Poliakoff

Professor Sir Martyn Poliakoff CBE FRS FREng is a Research Professor of Chemistry at the University of Nottingham's School of Chemistry. He also holds the position of Honorary Professor of Chemistry at Moscow State University (currently suspended) and has served in numerous prestigious academic roles including Foreign Secretary and Vice-President of the Royal Society (2011-16). His career at Nottingham began with a Lectureship in 1979, progressing to Reader in Inorganic Chemistry in 1985 and Professor of Chemistry in 1991.

His educational background includes:

• B.A. from King's College, Cambridge (1969)
• Ph.D. from King's College, Cambridge under J.J. Turner FRS (1973) on Matrix Isolation of Large Molecules

Poliakoff's research primarily focuses on chemical applications of supercritical fluids with particular emphasis on Green and Sustainable Chemistry. His work explores continuous reactions using supercritical carbon dioxide as environmentally friendly solvents, aiming to develop cleaner chemical processes that reduce waste and energy consumption. This research has significant implications for industrial chemical manufacturing and environmental sustainability.

Analysis of his publication record reveals consistent focus on green chemistry applications, particularly supercritical fluid technology and continuous processing. His work bridges fundamental chemical research with practical industrial applications, demonstrating how green chemistry principles can be implemented in real-world chemical manufacturing. The publications also highlight his growing interest in science communication, particularly through digital media platforms.

His extensive honors include:

• Fellowship in the Royal Society (2002)
• CBE (2008) and Knighthood (2015) for services to science
• Foreign Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences (2011)
• James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public (2019)
• Multiple honorary doctorates from international institutions

Poliakoff has served on numerous editorial boards including as Chair of the Editorial Board of the RSC journal Green Chemistry (2006-12). He has received significant research funding including an EPSRC/Royal Academy of Engineering Clean Technology Fellowship at Nottingham (1994-99). His most visible contribution to public engagement is as co-creator of the highly successful YouTube channel 'Periodic Videos' with videomaker Brady Haran since 2008, which has brought chemistry to millions worldwide.

He leads research groups focused on supercritical fluids and green chemistry applications, collaborating with both academic and industrial partners to develop sustainable chemical processes. His work continues to influence both academic research and industrial practice in green chemistry.