Richmond Sarpong, biochemist faculty scientist in the Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division has been announced as the 2021 Edward Leete awardee by the Division of Organic Chemistry of the American Chemical Society. Sarpong, who is also a UC Berkeley chemistry professor, is being specifically recognized for his outstanding contributions to research in organic chemistry and teaching.

He became interested in chemistry during his childhood in Ghana, West Africa, after seeing the power of anti-parasitic drug ivermectin to combat river blindness. Today, Sarpong and members of his lab study complex bioactive molecules derived from marine and terrestrial organisms that have potential medical applications.

The Edward Leete awardee is selected by the Executive Committee of the Organic Division and is presented biennially at the Society’s national meeting. The award is named in honor of Edward Leete who, through his contributions to science and education, fostered an appreciation and love for organic chemistry.

Read more from the UC Berkeley College of Chemistry.