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.