Rice University celebrated a milestone in its scientific history Dec. 9 by displaying the Nobel Prize medals of late Rice chemistry professors Robert F. Curl ’54 and Richard Smalley at a daylong event held at the Welcome Center at Sewall Hall. The special occasion marked the start of a yearlong celebration leading up to the Wiess School of Natural Sciences’ 50th anniversary in the fall of 2025, spotlighting five decades of scientific innovation and impact.
Curl, Smalley and Sir Harold W. Kroto of the University of Sussex were awarded the 1996 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their pioneering discovery of carbon-60 molecules — known as buckyballs — which revolutionized nanoscience and materials research. The Nobel Prize medals took center stage at the event, symbolizing the achievements that cemented Rice’s status as a hub for cutting-edge research and collaboration in science and engineering.
During an open house, the university welcomed community members to view both Curl and Smalley’s Nobel Prize medals and learn more about the legacy of their work. Later, a private reception brought together a large group of distinguished guests, including faculty, alumni and university leaders.
Speakers included Thomas Killian, dean of the Wiess School of Natural Sciences; Angel Marti, chair of the chemistry department; Junichiro Kono, director of the Smalley-Curl Institute; and Ramamoorthy Ramesh, executive vice president for research.
Killian opened the event, describing it as a celebration of Rice’s enduring spirit of discovery and innovation.
“Today we honor the profound impact of this groundbreaking discovery — not just on chemistry but on the broader scientific and engineering communities as well as Rice University as a whole,” Killian said. “The legacy of Bob Curl and Rick Smalley lives on through the transformative work emerging from our campus and the inspiration they continue to provide to scientists worldwide, encouraging us to reflect on these enduring contributions.”
Marti reflected on Curl’s remarkable journey and his pivotal influence on Rice’s chemistry department. He highlighted that Curl’s ability to attend Rice was made possible by the free tuition offered at the time, which allowed him to develop his passion for physical chemistry.
“Bob was an extraordinary scientist — a leader in the scientific community and a catalyst for innovation,” Marti said. “He was a Texan, a Rice department chair, a magister, a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. But most importantly, he was deeply admired and respected by his colleagues and students. He was an icon at Rice University, and today he stands as a legend.”
Kono continued by emphasizing Smalley’s significant contributions to the field of science and to Rice. He highlighted Smalley’s dedication to teaching and his belief in education as the cornerstone of a better future, particularly in addressing global challenges like energy and health.
“Improved science education was a cause very close to his heart, and he always encouraged young people to pursue careers in science,” Kono said. “He was known for his inspiring slogan: ‘Be a scientist, save the world.’”
Ramesh concluded by underscoring the importance of the Nobel Prize in showcasing Rice’s commitment to excellence and how the university’s new strategic plan is designed to foster the kind of groundbreaking work exemplified by Curl and Smalley.
“Our expectations for ourselves must always be at the highest level,” Ramesh said. “With our new strategic plan, we’re approaching our work with deliberate focus, and it’s this intentionality that drives success.”
Also in attendance were members of Curl’s family, including his wife Jonel and one of his sons, Mike. Mike noted that his father would have been happy to know that his work was still being celebrated so many years later.
“I’m sure it would have meant a lot to him,” Mike said. “He dedicated his whole life to Rice.”
In his closing remarks, Killian reflected on the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Wiess School of Natural Sciences in 2025, announcing a yearlong series of events and celebrations. He highlighted the importance of this milestone as an opportunity to honor the achievements that have defined scientific exploration at Rice and their impact around the world.
“This anniversary will celebrate the educators who have inspired generations of scientists and showcase the groundbreaking work that continues to push boundaries while honoring the legacy of those who paved the way,” Killian said.
He expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the event and exhibit possible, including the Woodson Research Center, the Rice Advanced Materials Institute and the Smalley-Curl Institute. Their dedication and vision, he noted, have ensured that this display will inspire future generations. He also thanked the Houston Museum of Natural Science for providing the temporary display and lighting for the event.
Killian concluded by announcing that Curl’s Nobel medal will soon have a permanent home at Rice, where it will serve as a lasting symbol of the transformative work conducted on campus and the university’s commitment to advancing discovery.
(Video credit: Gustavo Raskosky/Rice University)