Professor Laura Kiessling Awarded Hofmann Medal at Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Symposium

Prof. Laura Kiessling receiving the Hofmann medal from Prof. John Robinson
Prof. Laura Kiessling receiving the Hofmann medal from Prof. John Robinson

University of Wisconsin-Madison Professor Laura Kiessling was a presenter at the 8th annual Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin (DCH) Symposium on Oct. 10. At the event, Kiessling was awarded the Hofmann medal in recognition of her outstanding career.

The DCH Symposium, held at the University of Zurich, was established in 2006 in honor of Hodgkin (1910-1994), who won the Nobel Prize in chemistry in 1964. She pioneered the use of X-ray techniques to determine the structures of important biochemical substances such as cholesterol, vitamin B12, penicillin, and insulin. Hodgkin is also lauded for her efforts to advocate world peace.

The DCH Symposium has a tradition of showcasing the work of premier women researchers from all scientific disciplines. “Kiessling’s recognition in this elite group of international scientists is highly significant,” says Professor and Chair Robert McMahon. “The Hodgkin symposium has had an impressive list of participants during its 10-year history.”

The Hofmann medal’s namesake is Dr. Albert Hofmann (1906-2008), who was dubbed the greatest researcher of the human psyche. He is well known for the synthesis of psychoactive substances, and his discoveries unveiled new perspectives on how chemicals affect cognitive function. The Hofmann medal recognizes excellence in the field of chemistry.

Photo courtesy of Professor Cristina Nevado, University of Zurich