John B. Goodenough: “Don’t retire too early!” | Summary and Q&A

Summary

In this video, Professor John B. Goodenough, the oldest person to be awarded the Nobel Prize, discusses his surprise and gratitude for receiving the prestigious prize. He also talks about his work on lithium-ion batteries, the ongoing research to develop polymers that conduct lithium or sodium, and the importance of using technology for good. Professor Goodenough reflects on his time as head of the department of inorganic chemistry at Oxford University and shares his thoughts on the impact of his battery technology in the world.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does Professor Goodenough feel about being the oldest person to be awarded the Nobel Prize?

Professor Goodenough expresses his gratitude and describes it as a wonderful surprise.

Q: Does Professor Goodenough have any secret to a long life in research?

Professor Goodenough states that his only advice is not to retire too early.

Q: What work did the committee cite when awarding Professor Goodenough the Nobel Prize?

The committee cited Professor Goodenough's work in Oxford in the early 80s when he developed lithium-ion batteries.

Q: Is Professor Goodenough still working on battery technology?

Yes, Professor Goodenough and his team are currently focused on developing a polymer that conducts lithium or sodium. They aim to create a solid-state material with immobilized liquid.

Q: Were you aware that Professor Goodenough was once the head of the Department of Inorganic Chemistry at Oxford?

Yes, Professor Goodenough confirms that he was the head of the department and humorously mentions that some undergraduate students, like Claire Gray, even used teddy bears to ensure a bigger audience during his lectures.

Q: How does Professor Goodenough feel when he sees the batteries he helped develop being used by everyone?

Professor Goodenough emphasizes that it's not just about the technology itself, but how people use it. He is happy when it is used for good purposes but feels bad if it is used for negative ones. He believes that technology is morally neutral, and it is our responsibility to make the right choices.

Q: What does Professor Goodenough think determines the impact of technology?

Professor Goodenough emphasizes that it is how we use technology that determines everything. Whether it is used for good or bad depends on the choices we make.

Q: When will Professor Goodenough be coming to Stockholm?

Professor Goodenough will be visiting Stockholm in December to receive his Nobel Prize.

Q: What will Professor Goodenough be receiving before his visit to Stockholm?

Professor Goodenough will be receiving the Coppola medal from the Royal Society.

Takeaways

Professor John B. Goodenough expresses his surprise and gratitude for receiving the Nobel Prize. He discusses his work on lithium-ion batteries and the ongoing research to develop polymers for faster lithium or sodium conductivity. Professor Goodenough reflects on the impact of technology and emphasizes the importance of how we choose to use it. He will be visiting Stockholm in December to receive his Nobel Prize and is also receiving the Coppola medal from the Royal Society.