Harry Kroto — English chemist and Nobel laureate

Career and research

Kroto's research spanned molecular spectroscopy, carbon chemistry and investigations related to molecules in space. He was a member of the team—alongside Robert Curl and Richard Smalley—that identified a new family of carbon allotropes in the mid-1980s. Their most famous member, buckminsterfullerene (C60), has a spherical cage-like structure and inspired a new field of carbon nanoscience. The discovery relied on innovative laboratory techniques for producing and characterizing small carbon clusters.

Discovery of fullerenes and Nobel Prize

The identification of fullerenes opened avenues in materials science and chemistry by revealing carbon can form closed-shell, cage-like molecules as well as chains and sheets. This result altered conceptual views of carbon allotropy and led to extensive follow-up work in synthesis, theory and applications. For these contributions Kroto and his collaborators received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1996.

Outreach, teaching and public engagement

Kroto was a passionate advocate for science education and public engagement. He lectured widely, supported initiatives to improve science teaching, and used media to explain scientific ideas. He was an early supporter of Asteroid Day and participated in projects that aimed to bring scientific research to a broader audience.

Recognition and legacy

• Knighted for his services to science (styled Sir Harold Kroto).
• Fellow of learned societies and recipient of international awards.
• Remembered for linking fundamental research with public outreach and education.

Kroto died on 30 April 2016 in Lewes, East Sussex, from complications of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at age 76. His scientific legacy endures in nanoscience, carbon chemistry and the many students and members of the public he inspired. For further information see institutional profiles and recorded talks available via relevant archives and trusts (resources).