The Welch Foundation has announced Academician Chi-Huey Wong as the 2021 recipient of the prestigious Robert A. Welch Award in Chemistry, in honor of his outstanding contributions in chemical research. Dr. Wong has earned recognition worldwide for his development of new methods for the synthesis of complex carbohydrates and glycoproteins, as well as the elucidation of carbohydrate-mediated biological recognition associated with disease progression. These discoveries represent major steps forward in research, and have opened up new possibilities for medicine and vaccine developments.

Recognized for his pioneering work in the field of glycoscience, Dr. Wong is the first scientist to develop innovative chemoenzymatic methods such as automated programmable synthesis of oligosaccharides and glycoproteins. His other important achievements include the synthesis of cancer vaccines, sugar chips, and advances in anti-viral and anti-bacterial research.

The Welch Award in Chemistry is awarded annually by the Robert A. Welch Foundation to encourage and recognize contributions in basic chemical research for the benefit of mankind. Established in 1972, the Award has been presented to 54 scientists. There have been only two Asian recipients to date, including Dr. Wong.

The Welch Award in Chemistry：https://welch1.org/awards/welch-award-in-chemistry