Ryoji Noyori Quotes

Powerful Ryoji Noyori for Daily Growth

About Ryoji Noyori

Ryoji Noyori (born March 29, 1938) is a renowned Japanese chemist who has made significant contributions to the field of molecular catalysis and asymmetric synthesis. He was born in Yamaguchi, Japan and grew up in the post-World War II era, which influenced his desire for peace and progress through science. Noyori studied chemistry at Kyoto University, where he was inspired by Professor Ken-Ichiro Nakamura, a pioneer in organometallic chemistry. In 1963, Noyori completed his doctorate under Nakamura's supervision. After postdoctoral work at the California Institute of Technology, he returned to Kyoto University in 1972, where he began his groundbreaking research. Noyori is best known for his development of metal catalysts for asymmetric hydrogenation, a technique that allows chemists to produce optically active compounds efficiently and sustainably. This work, which spanned several decades, earned him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2001 (shared with William S. Knowles and K. Barry Sharpless). In addition to his research, Noyori has been a dedicated educator and administrator. He served as the President of Kyoto University from 2006 to 2013 and is currently a Senior Advisor for Science and Technology there. His influence extends beyond academia; he has advised several Japanese government committees on science and technology policies. Noyori's life and work embody the pursuit of scientific excellence, innovation, and global collaboration. He continues to inspire generations of chemists with his groundbreaking research and dedication to education. Some of his notable quotes include: 1. "Science is a quest for truth and beauty." 2. "Scientific research should always be carried out with the aim of contributing to the betterment of mankind." 3. "The most important thing in science is to try, try, and try again."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Science is a wonderful world, full of beauty and mystery."

This quote by Ryoji Noyori captures the essence of science as both an aesthetic and enigmatic field of study. It implies that science, much like art or nature, possesses a sense of inherent beauty, inviting us to marvel at its wonders. At the same time, it underscores the mystery and unknown aspects that science continues to explore, encouraging curiosity and inquiry. Essentially, Noyori views science as a mesmerizing journey through a world filled with both aesthetic appeal and intellectual challenge.


"The joy of science lies in its constant pursuit of truth."

Ryoji Noyori's statement "The joy of science lies in its constant pursuit of truth" emphasizes the intrinsic motivation scientists have to uncover knowledge, facts, or principles about the natural world. This quote signifies that the thrill of scientific exploration isn't just about solving problems or making discoveries but rather about relentlessly seeking a deeper understanding of reality and the universe we inhabit. It underscores the importance of curiosity and inquisitiveness as core values in the scientific endeavor, driving researchers to push boundaries and expand human knowledge.


"In the realm of chemistry, innovation and discovery go hand in hand."

This quote by Ryoji Noyori emphasizes the inherent connection between innovation and discovery in the field of chemistry. It suggests that new ideas (innovation) often lead to breakthroughs or advancements (discovery), while discoveries can also inspire further innovations, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two concepts. This quote underscores the dynamic and continuous nature of scientific progress in chemistry, where innovation drives discovery and vice versa, ultimately leading to significant advancements in knowledge and applications.


"It is through perseverance and determination that we can overcome any obstacle."

This quote by Ryoji Noyori suggests that persistent effort and unwavering determination are key to overcoming challenges or difficulties one may encounter in life. It emphasizes the importance of resilience and perseverance, highlighting that when faced with obstacles, maintaining a steadfast spirit can ultimately lead to success.


"Science is not just about facts and figures, it's about imagination and curiosity."

This quote emphasizes that science extends beyond raw data and calculations; it encompasses the creative and inquisitive aspects of human nature. Ryoji Noyori underscores the importance of curiosity and imagination in scientific exploration, which are integral parts of the scientific method. Through these qualities, scientists delve deeper into understanding the world, uncover new discoveries, and push the boundaries of knowledge.


Chiral receptor sites in the human body interact only with drug molecules having the proper absolute configuration, resulting in marked differences in the pharmacological activities of enantiomers.

- Ryoji Noyori

Human Body, Marked, Having, Sites

Molecular chirality plays a key role in science and technology. In particular, life depends on molecular chirality in that many biological functions are inherently dissymmetric.

- Ryoji Noyori

Role, Plays, Functions, Molecular

Except for a short period at the end of World War II, I attended an elementary school affiliated to Kobe University from ages six to twelve and then moved on to Nada Middle and High School from ages twelve to eighteen. I enjoyed many out-door activities in my youth.

- Ryoji Noyori

University, Moved, Kobe

I was a mere 29-year-old instructor at Kyoto, enjoying daily research work with some young students. Nothing had prepared me to be a professor at a major national university. Being too young and inexperienced to be a Full Professor, I was first appointed Associate Professor of Chemistry.

- Ryoji Noyori

Young, Some, Inexperienced, Instructor

In 1957, at the age of 18, I entered Kyoto University, which was known to be the most active institution in the research of polymer chemistry.

- Ryoji Noyori

Chemistry, University, Which, Kyoto

The structural difference between enantiomers can be serious with respect to the actions of synthetic drugs.

- Ryoji Noyori

Difference, Synthetic, Structural

My father, Kaneki, was a gifted research director of a chemical company, and his profession strongly influenced the path of my life.

- Ryoji Noyori

My Life, Profession, Gifted

RIKEN has attracted numerous outstanding scientists from inside and outside Japan, and these people have achieved creative and outstanding results.

- Ryoji Noyori

Outstanding, Japan, Numerous, Results

Enantiomers often smell and taste differently.

- Ryoji Noyori

Taste, Differently, Often, Smell

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