Robert Mokaya has taken office as the 95th president of the Royal Society of Chemistry, marking a major milestone for the global scientific community. The Kenyan-born scientist is the organization’s first Black president and currently the only Black chemistry professor in the United Kingdom.
As he begins his two-year term, Mokaya says his focus extends beyond the title. He wants to strengthen chemistry’s global impact, promote inclusion, and ensure more people can contribute to scientific discovery, regardless of where they come from.
Robert Mokaya Brings a Global Vision to the Royal Society of Chemistry
Mokaya describes himself as a “global citizen.” That perspective has shaped both his scientific career and his plans for the Royal Society of Chemistry, often known as the RSC.
He believes science thrives when researchers can move freely and collaborate across borders. According to Mokaya, international partnerships create stronger research and better solutions to global problems.
“I see the RSC as a global organisation,” he said. “I want our impact to continue to grow globally.”
He also wants members across the world to feel connected to the society. At the same time, he hopes the RSC strengthens its role as a trusted partner in solving worldwide challenges through chemistry.
Robert Mokaya Says Inclusion Strengthens Scientific Excellence
Although his election is historic, Mokaya says his leadership is driven by improving the chemical sciences for everyone. He believes inclusion is essential for achieving excellence.
“If you want to have a high-performing team, you should have an inclusive and diverse team,” he explained. “If you exclude any section of the community, then I believe you are short-changing yourself.”
His involvement in advancing inclusion grew after the publication of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Missing Elements report in 2022. The report highlighted unequal participation across the chemical sciences.
Mokaya called the report a turning point. The findings convinced him that stronger action was needed. Since then, he has played a leading role in supporting efforts to widen participation throughout the profession.
Chemistry’s Economic Impact Remains a Key Priority
Alongside inclusion, Mokaya wants to raise awareness about chemistry’s value to society and the economy. He pointed to the RSC’s latest Contribution of Chemistry report, which estimates the chemical sciences contribute £60.5 billion to the economy.
He believes many people do not fully understand chemistry’s influence. Chemical scientists help drive progress in healthcare, manufacturing, defence, and many other industries.
Mokaya said governments, educators, and industry leaders should work together to strengthen education, training, and investment in the field. He argues that stronger chemical sciences create stronger economies.
Supporting Innovation and Future Scientific Leaders
Mokaya also plans to encourage innovation throughout his presidency. He wants the RSC to continue supporting researchers through grants, competitions, publishing, and awards.
He praised the society’s recent efforts to recognize a wider range of achievements. Those include honoring more research teams, educators, and early-career scientists whose work improves lives.
According to Mokaya, the RSC must also remain a trusted source of scientific information. He believes reliable communication is increasingly important as misinformation spreads more easily.
Preparation and Experience Shaped Robert Mokaya’s Leadership
Before taking office, Mokaya served as president-elect and previously worked as an RSC trustee. Those experiences gave him a deeper understanding of the organization’s work and long-term goals.
He said working closely with outgoing president Annette Doherty helped prepare him for the role. The transition also allowed him to observe how previous presidents guided the society.
Looking ahead, Mokaya says he feels ready for the responsibility. His presidency aims to strengthen global collaboration, support scientific excellence, and create opportunities for future generations of chemists.
For many young scientists, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, Mokaya’s journey stands as a powerful example that leadership in science can come from every corner of the world.
