Over the past century the chemical industry has been marked by transformations related to product and process innovations, the evolution of global markets, and the expansion of regulatory mandates. Today, the chemical industry faces a unique set of challenges from the rapid emergence of new fields and the maturing of existing methods for manufacturing. Based on findings from the first annual CHF–SCI Innovation Day, which explored frontier areas for industrial chemistry, this white paper argues that the industry’s future lies in exploring diverse areas for research and development (R&D) rather than a narrow focus. As core inventors and manufacturers of the material basis of modern life, chemical firms are uniquely positioned to avoid waves of creative destruction prevalent in other sectors. By reinvigorating R&D, developing new markets, and engaging the public in a new dialogue about the risks and rewards of emerging technology, chemical firms can promote a new wave of innovation and rejuvenate the industry.


This is the first in a series of white papers to be produced by CHF’s Center for Contemporary History and Policy.

Also in this series:

Research Frontiers for the Chemical Industry: A Report on the Fifth Annual CHF-SCI Innovation Day, Warren G. Schlinger Symposium

Research Frontiers for the Chemical Industry: A Report on the Fourth Annual CHF-SCI Innovation Day, Warren G. Schlinger Symposium

Research Frontiers for the Chemical Industry: A Report on the Third Annual CHF-SCI Innovation Day, Warren G. Schlinger Symposium

Research Frontiers for the Chemical Industry: A Report on the Second Annual CHF-SCI Innovation Day, Warren G. Schlinger Symposium

Arthur Daemmrich is an assistant professor in the Business, Government, and the International Economy Unit at Harvard Business School (HBS) and a faculty member of the HBS Healthcare Initiative. His research examines science, medicine, and the state, with a focus on advancing theories of risk and regulation through empirical research on the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and chemical sectors. Daemmrich has published on regulation and innovation as well as science, technology, and business policy. He holds a Ph.D. from Cornell University and a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania.

Cyrus Mody is an assistant professor in the Department of History at Rice University. He holds a Ph.D. in science and technology studies from Cornell University and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical and materials engineering from Harvard University. He was the 2004–2005 Gordon Cain Fellow at CHF. Mody has published widely on the history and sociology of materials science, instrumentation, and nanotechnology. He is also the author of Instrumental Community: Probe Microscopy and the Path to Nanotechnology.