A conference which begins in Dunedin this weekend has attracted more high profile international researchers than any previous chemistry-related gathering in New Zealand, organisers say.
More than 200 people are attending the International Symposium on Macrocyclic and Supramolecular Chemistry, which is being held for the first time in New Zealand.
The five-day gathering will bring together an "incredible number of international stars" in the discipline, with lectures given by more than 30 leading researchers from 13 countries, Prof Sally Brooker and Prof Keith Gordon, of the university chemistry department, said.
They are jointly chairing the gathering, being held at the university.
The line-up includes Prof Sir Fraser Stoddart, of Northwestern University, who is one of the pioneers in the field of nanotechnology, involving the creation of "tiny molecular [nano-sized] machines".
Sir Fraser will give a public lecture in the St David Street lecture theatre next Wednesday at 6.30pm, titled "Mingling Art with Science".
The conference runs until next Thursday and covers a wide range of chemistry disciplines.
"Increasing pressures on the health care system", including the effects on older people, will be highlighted during the latest New Zealand Bioethics Conference, which begins in the city tomorrow.
About 100 people will attend the three-day event, at Salmond College, which will focus on health care needs and resources.
