James Durrant (chemist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Durrant
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Durrant in 2017
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| Nationality | British |
| Education | Gresham's School |
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| Thesis | Transient absorption spectroscopy of photosystem two (1991) |
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James Robert Durrant is a British scientist. He studies photochemistry, which is about how light and chemicals interact. He is a professor at Imperial College London and Swansea University. He also leads a center that works on plastic electronics.
Learning and Education
James Durrant went to Gresham's School when he was younger. Later, he studied at the University of Cambridge. He then went to Imperial College London. There, he earned his PhD in 1991. A PhD is a very high university degree. His research looked at how plants use light for energy.
Science Work and Discoveries
Professor Durrant's work focuses on using light to create energy. He researches solar cells, which turn sunlight into electricity. He also works on making solar fuel, which is like making fuel using sunlight. Another area he studies is photocatalysis. This is using light to speed up chemical reactions.
His research also involves tiny materials called nanomaterials. He also explores flexible electronics, which are electronics that can bend. He has written over 400 scientific papers. These papers explain how materials work at a tiny level to make devices function.
Professor Durrant teaches physical chemistry at Imperial College London. He also helps with a special center at Swansea University. This center works on new ways to use solar energy.
Awards and Special Recognitions
James Durrant has received many important awards for his science work.
- In 2022, he was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). This was for his work in photochemistry and solar energy.
- In 2018, he received the Hughes Medal from the Royal Society.
- In 2017, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS). This is a big honor for scientists. He was chosen for his work on new materials for solar energy. This includes both solar cells and artificial photosynthesis.
- In 2016, he became a Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales.
- In 2012, he won the Tilden Prize from the Royal Society of Chemistry.
- In 2009, he won the Environment Prize from the Royal Society of Chemistry.
- In 1994, he received the Meldola Medal and Prize from the Royal Society of Chemistry.
