Professor Christopher Hunter FRS

Chris Hunter is a chemist with research interests in molecular recognition — the theory and measurement of the specific interaction of molecules through noncovalent bonding. He invented simple theoretical models that explain the dominant factors governing the behaviour of molecular ensembles. His research has applications in molecular biology, materials science and the chemical industry.

An improved understanding of covalent bonding, molecular structure and methods for chemical synthesis led to the discovery of new medicines, plastics and pigments during the 20th century. Now, Chris’s work is providing the scientific foundations for the next generation of technological advances in which molecular building blocks will be assembled into more complex — supramolecular — architectures using noncovalent bonding.

Chris has published hundreds of scientific papers in his field and is a highly cited researcher. He has been awarded a number of research fellowships and has received many awards, including four from the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Professional position

  • Herchel Smith Professor of Organic Chemistry, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge

Subject groups

  • Chemistry

    Chemistry, general, Chemistry, organic, Chemistry, physical, Chemistry, biological, Chemistry, theoretical

Professor Christopher Hunter FRS
Elected 2008
Committees Participated Role
Sectional Committee 3: Chemistry October 2024 - September 2027 Member
Grants Committee January 2019 - December 2021 Chair
Grants Committee January 2017 - December 2018 Member
Research Appointment Panel A(ii) July 2011 - June 2017 Deputy Chair
Sectional Committee 3: Chemistry December 2009 - November 2012 Member