Nobel Laureate Tom Cech to give distinguished lecture March 11
Attend the 2026 Arts and Sciences Honors Program Distinguished Lecture Series on March 11.
The College of Arts and Sciences Honors Program is thrilled to welcome Tom Cech, distinguished professor of biochemistry and Nobel Laureate in chemistry, as this spring's featured speaker. In his presentation, "The Magic of RNA: New Medicines, Immortality, and the Power to Control Evolution", Cech will discuss the extraordinary power of RNA.
If you go
Who: Open to the public
What: "The Magic of RNA: New Medicines, Immortality, and the Power to Control Evolution"
When: Wednesday, March 11, 5:30 p.m.
Where: Gold Biosciences Building, Gold Auditorium (A2B70)
Since the 1960’s, RNA has been understood as the messenger for the code of life stored in the DNA double helix. Decades of research on messenger RNA allowed the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines to be developed in record time in 2020, putting the brakes on the viral pandemic. But RNA is so much more than a simple messenger—it is an active participant in the chemistry of life.
In his talk, Cech will explore some of RNA’s magical powers and stories that are recounted in his recent book "The Catalyst."
Arrive at 5 p.m. for a seat and a slice of pizza! The talk will start at 5:30 p.m. No RSVP is required, and everyone including community partners outside of CU are welcome to attend.
The honors program has partnered with Boulder Bookstore to offer copies of Cech’s books for purchase at the event, but you are also welcome to bring your own copy. A book signing will follow the talk at the entrance to the auditorium.
Provost Ann Stevens will say a few remarks and will introduce Cech.