1999

Jan Michalski is the founder of the organophosphorus chemistry school in Poland and one of undisputed leaders in organophosphorus chemistry for more than 40 years. He is the author of over 350 papers and co-author of 4 monographs on the organophosphorus compounds chemistry.
Prof.Michalski is recognized for his pioneering work in the field of trivalent phosphorus stereochemistry as well as the chemistry of thio- and selena­ phosphoryl compounds. He was one of the first to use 31P NMR spectroscopy together with stereochemical studies to elucidate the mechanisms of important reactions in phosphorus chemistry. Michalski developed also methods for chemo-­ and stereoselective phosphorylation of naturalproducts. His development of the concept of organophosphorus pseudohalogens, which became an important tool in the synthesis of sulfur- and selenium-organic compounds as well as in general organic synthesis, is of particular importance.
Prof. Michalski is the member of Polish, France, and Berlin Academies of Sciences. He was awarded different international prizes including the Medals for scientific achievements of Paris, Polish Chemical Society, and Japan.