
4th Umicore Catalysis Symposium
Homogeneous catalytic processes and solutions - from lab to industry
This full-day event will bring together leading voices from academia and industry to explore the latest innovations in homogeneous catalysis. Expect a vibrant exchange of ideas, expert talks, and valuable networking opportunities — all set against the scenic backdrop of the Charles River, Boston, MA - USA.
✨ Keynote Speakers ✨
We are honored to welcome two world-renowned scientists


✨ Professor Buchwald
Cu-Catalyzed Carbon-Heteroatom Coupling
Renowned for his pioneering work in organic synthesis and catalysis, Professor Buchwald will present recent advances in copper-catalyzed C–N and C–O bond-forming processes. His keynote, titled "Cu-Catalyzed Carbon-Heteroatom Coupling", will explore the use of copper catalysts to enable efficient and selective transformations involving amines and ethers. This lecture promises to deliver insights into practical applications of copper catalysis and its evolving role in modern synthetic chemistry.
TOPIC: Cu-Catalyzed Carbon-Heteroatom Coupling
✨ Professor Chirik
Catalysis with Earth-Abundant Metals
In a compelling keynote titled "Catalysis with Earth-Abundant Metals", Professor Chirik will challenge the sustainability of traditional catalytic systems. His talk will highlight innovative approaches using iron and cobalt catalysts as alternatives to precious metals like palladium and rhodium. With a focus on pharmaceutical applications, this lecture will showcase how earth-abundant metals can unlock new reactivity while advancing the goals of green chemistry.
TOPIC: Catalysis with Earth-Abudant Metals
Plenary speakers and their topics
Dr. Celine Jung, Umicore
Reduce, Recycle, Reuse: The cycle of life of (precious) metals.
Dr. Michael Haibach, AbbVie Inc.
Development of Ligands for Challenging Nickel Suzuki Couplings
Prof. Dr. Victoria Däschlein-Gessner, RUB
Design and Development of Ylide-Functionalized Phosphines for Pd-Catalyzed Couplings
Dr. Nico Fleck, Merck
Swiping Right on Catalysis: Finding the Match Between Palladium Source and Ligand
Dr. Achim Link, Solvias
Next-Gen HTE at Solvias: Smarter Screening, Faster Answers, Earlier Compliance
Dr. Steven Wisniewski, BMS
From Vials to Reactors: Catalyzing Innovation in Process Development
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Venue: Royal Sonesta Hotel, Cambridge, MA - USA
Fee: Free of charge
Audience: Professionals and researchers in homogeneous catalysis from both academia and industry.
Register NOW!
Registration is binding and now open.
Spots are limited — please register only if you are committed to attending.
Our this year's UCS location
We’re excited to host this year’s UCS at the Royal Sonesta Boston, a modern and elegant hotel located along the scenic Charles River in Cambridge (Boston, USA). The venue features spacious, light-filled conference rooms with stunning views of the Boston skyline, creating an inspiring setting for collaboration and innovation.
The hotel is just minutes from top attractions like MIT, Harvard University, TD Garden, and the New England Aquarium, making it easy to explore the best of Boston and Cambridge. For those staying elsewhere, there are several excellent hotels nearby to suit a variety of preferences.
We look forward to welcoming you to an unforgettable event in a truly exceptional location!
The Royal Sonesta
Address: 40 Edwin Land Boulevard, Cambridge, MA 02142
Phone: +1 617.806.4200
Let's create good chemistry. Together.