Kyriacos C. ‘KC’ Nicolaou is a chemist known for his work in synthesising complex molecules of biological and medical importance. His successful synthesis of the anticancer drug Taxol, alongside numerous other clinical agents and biologically active molecules, bears testament to the significance of his work in the molecular and medical sciences.

KC’s research has long been concerned with the continued discovery and development of new synthetic strategies and technologies and their practical applications to drug discovery and development. By combining novel organic chemistry with cutting-edge biomedical research, he has opened the door to the exciting future development of new drugs against cancer and many other diseases.

The recipient of numerous honorary doctorates for his work, KC currently sits on the editorial board of several prestigious chemical journals. He counts the 2011 Benjamin Franklin Medal in Chemistry of the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, United States, amongst his many accolades.