DuPont (NYSE: DD) announced that Dr. Nora Radu, DuPont Senior Laureate, has been honored with the 2025 American Chemical Society (ACS) Award for Distinguished Service in the Advancement of Inorganic Chemistry. She makes history as the first industrial scientist to receive this prestigious award since its inception in 1963.
Expressing her gratitude, Radu stated, “I am deeply honored to receive this award, which recognizes both impactful research and dedicated service to the broader inorganic community. This achievement is not just a personal milestone but also a reflection of the incredible support and collaboration I have had throughout my career. I hope it inspires more industrial scientists, especially women, to pursue impactful research in inorganic chemistry.”
Pioneering Contributions to Chemistry and Material Science
With over 25 years at DuPont, Radu has driven innovations across multiple industries through her expertise in inorganic chemistry and material science. Early in her career, she played a key role in advancing DuPont’s nylon products by developing catalysts for nylon 66 intermediates. Her work improved cost efficiency and facilitated wider industry adoption.
More recently, she contributed to the electronics industry by pioneering dielectric material developments. Her innovations led to a multigenerational platform of polyimides for advanced packaging substrates, enabling high-performance computing in data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) applications.
Breakthroughs in Flexible Display Technologies
As per the DuPont press release, Radu’s leadership also brought groundbreaking advancements in flexible display technology. She spearheaded the development of novel colorless and amber liquid polyimide films, enabling a new generation of durable, flexible displays for mobile and electronic devices. Her current research continues to push boundaries, developing OLED materials that enhance display performance and longevity.
With an impressive career portfolio, Radu holds over 60 patents, has authored 20 internal reports, and published 17 scientific papers.
Recognition from DuPont and the Scientific Community
Dr. Randal King, Vice President of R&D/Technology at DuPont Electronics & Industrial, praised Radu’s contributions: “Nora’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of material science and her leadership in the chemistry community make her a deserving recipient of this award. This recognition underscores the immense impact industrial scientists can have.”
Albert G. Horvath, CEO of ACS, echoed similar sentiments. “ACS applauds Dr. Radu for her groundbreaking achievements and inspiring leadership in the inorganic chemistry community. As the first industrial chemist to receive this award, she continues to be at the forefront of scientific innovation.”
Championing the Next Generation of Scientists
Beyond her scientific contributions, Radu actively fosters emerging talent in the global technology community. In 2007, as Chair of the Gordon Research Conference (GRC) in Organometallic Chemistry, she launched the GRC Graduate Research Seminar (GRS) in Organometallic Chemistry. This initiative helped connect graduate students and postdoctoral associates, creating an inclusive environment for early-career researchers.
She also played a crucial role within the ACS Division of Inorganic Chemistry (DIC). As Program Co-Chair for 12 years, she managed scientific programming for ACS national meetings and increased industry participation. She introduced the ACS DIC Early Career Industrial Investigator Award and, in 2023, became the first industrial scientist elected as Chair of the DIC.
Award Presentation and Symposium in Honor of Radu
ACS recognized Radu’s outstanding contributions at the National Awards Symposium on March 25 during the ACS Spring Meeting in San Diego, CA. She delivered an award address titled Industrial Inorganic Chemistry: Beyond Catalysis. In addition, ACS hosted a symposium in her honor on March 23.
The ACS Award for Distinguished Service in Inorganic Chemistry is presented annually. It honors individuals who advance inorganic chemistry through exceptional research and service. Radu’s selection highlights her status as a trusted leader and innovator. She is shaping the future of chemistry in both industry and academia.
