Event Recap: James and Kathleen McCloskey Bioscience Endowed Lecture Featuring Nobel Laureate Dr. Frances H. Arnold
The Departments of Medicinal Chemistry and Biochemistry were honored to host the James and Kathleen McCloskey Bioscience Endowed Lecture on Thursday, October 23, 2025, featuring Dr. Frances H. Arnold, Nobel Laureate and Linus Pauling Professor of Chemical Engineering at Caltech.
Dr. Arnold delivered an inspiring and deeply engaging lecture titled “Innovation by Evolution: Bringing New Chemistry to Life.” Her work in the directed evolution of enzymes—recognized with the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry—has reshaped modern chemistry, biology, and medicine. Attendees were treated to an inside look at how iterative innovation and biological evolution can unlock entirely new chemistries with the potential to transform human health.
The event drew an extraordinary turnout, with the Skaggs Auditorium filled to capacity—and beyond—with faculty, students, researchers, and community members eager to hear from one of the world’s most visionary scientists.
Following the lecture, a lively reception in the Skaggs Atrium brought together guests for refreshments and conversation. Students and faculty enjoyed rare one-on-one discussions with Dr. Arnold, who generously shared insights about science, creativity, and the future of the field. We were also delighted to welcome members of the McCloskey family, whose support makes this distinguished lecture possible.
A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who attended and helped make this event such a tremendous success. We look forward to continuing to bring world-class scientific conversations to our campus and community.