This contribution, adapted from the Bader Impact Report 2024–25, was written by Professor P. Andrew Evans, Bader Chair in Organic Chemistry, and reflects his perspective on the research, collaborations, and impact made possible through the Bader Endowment.
This past year, the Evans Group continued to push the frontiers of organic chemistry, developing innovative reactions and applying them to complex challenges in synthesis and medicine. These accomplishments have further distinguished the Alfred R. Bader Chair in Organic Chemistry at Queen’s and have garnered recognition across the international scientific community. Their progress would not have been possible without the vision and generosity of the Bader family and Bader Philanthropies, Inc. The support of the Alfred R. Bader Chair Endowment enables bold, impactful research with far-reaching implications for human health. The research program has thrived through several strategic collaborations and competitive funding successes.
Working with Dr. John Allingham and Dr. Andrew Craig, they secured support from the University Hospitals Kingston Foundation – Prostate Cancer Fight Foundation to develop new therapeutic strategies for cancer metastasis, the primary cause of cancer-related mortality. In parallel, a collaboration with Dr. Che Colpitts focuses on developing novel antiviral agents to target COVID and other clinically significant viral infections. These achievements reflect the group’s continued dedication to advancing organic chemistry and delivering solutions to urgent challenges in human health.
The group’s work was recognized widely this year through invitations to speak at distinguished events. Dr. Evans delivered nearly 40 invited lectures, including the DFC Lecture at the University of Science and Technology of China (Hefei), the New Organic Matter Frontier Lecture at Nankai University (Tianjin), the Organic Reactions Lecture at Old Dominion University (Norfolk, VA), and the William Ayer Lecture at the University of Alberta (Edmonton).
The group’s accomplishments, along with their continued leadership and outreach efforts, have further elevated the profile of the Alfred R. Bader Chair in Organic Chemistry. The Bader Endowment has been instrumental in supporting this success, enabling Queen’s researchers to pursue ambitious research, foster the next generation of scientists, and make meaningful contributions to the scientific community.
This May, the American Chemical Society will induct Dr. Alfred Bader into its National Historic Chemical Landmarks program. Secured through the leadership of the Queen’s University International Student Chapter of the American Chemical Society (Q-ACS), a commemorative plaque at Queen’s and a companion plaque at Bader Philanthropies, Inc.’s headquarters in Milwaukee will be installed.
