For outstanding theoretical, experimental and engineering contributions to the science and technology of precious metals

The International Precious Metals Institute (IPMI) recently announced that Cynthia Friend, the Theodore Williams Richards Professor of Chemistry and Professor of Materials Science at Harvard, is the 2019 recipient of the Henry J. Albert Award.

Each year, the Institute honors four researchers with their four Premier Awards, which acknowledge the achievement and advancement of precious metal technology and business. The Henry J. Albert Award, in particular, recognizes and encourages outstanding theoretical, experimental or engineering contributions to the science and technology of precious metals.

Gold is Friend's precious metal of choice. In her lab and as the Director of the Harvard Energy Frontier Research Center for Sustainable Chemical Production (IMASC), she investigates novel catalyst designs (often using gold) that can reduce energy costs.

In broad terms, Friend and her team work to address global energy challenges, improve the efficiency of catalytic reactions, and create new materials with key chemical functionality by controlling the chemical and physical properties of interfaces.

Friend will receive her award at the Institute's 43rd Conference in Reno, Nevada on June 18.