Nuno Maulide

Chemist. Pianist. Storyteller. Turning curiosity into discovery, creativity and change.

Nuno Maulide is Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Vienna, bestselling author of A Química das Emoções and Como se Transforma Ar em Pao and one of Europe's most engaging science communicators. Named Austria's Scientist of the Year, he combines cutting-edge scientific research with music, storytelling and humour to reveal how curiosity, creativity and resilience drive innovation. His keynote talks inspire audiences ranging from global companies to universities, showing how the principles that govern scientific discovery can transform leadership, teamwork and decision-making.

About: 

Curiosity is often celebrated as the spark behind innovation, yet few organisations truly understand how to cultivate it. Drawing on decades at the frontiers of scientific discovery, Professor Nuno Maulide reveals what chemistry teaches us about creativity, uncertainty, leadership and resilience. His presentations combine captivating demonstrations, powerful storytelling and practical insights to leave audiences not only entertained but equipped with a new way of thinking about innovation and change. Whether addressing scientists, executives or educators, his goal is always the same: to awaken curiosity and inspire people to approach problems with greater creativity and confidence.

Bio:

Professor Nuno Maulide is an internationally recognised chemist, keynote speaker, bestselling author and one of Europe's most engaging science communicators. As Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Vienna and a member of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, he leads pioneering research at the frontiers of molecular science, where his team develops new chemical reactions that enable discoveries in medicine, materials and biotechnology.

His scientific contributions have earned numerous international distinctions, including being named Austria's Scientist of the Year, election to the Austrian Academy of Sciences, and the Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award from the American Chemical Society—one of the highest international recognitions in chemistry.

Beyond the laboratory, Nuno has become widely known for his exceptional ability to make complex scientific ideas accessible, inspiring and deeply human. Through television, radio, newspapers, public lectures and social media, he reaches audiences of hundreds of thousands, demonstrating that science is not merely a collection of facts but a way of thinking that fosters creativity, resilience and innovation.

He is the bestselling author of Como se Transforma Ar em Pao and, more recently, of A Química das Emoções, a book that explores how chemistry shapes our everyday lives and emotions, and whose success (the most sold book at Feira do Livro 2026) has established him as one of Portugal's leading voices in science communication. His presentations combine scientific rigour with storytelling, humour and memorable demonstrations, creating experiences that resonate long after the event has ended.

A passionate pianist since childhood, Nuno frequently integrates live music into his keynote presentations, creating a unique format that seamlessly connects science, art and emotion. This distinctive combination has made him a sought-after speaker for companies, universities and international organisations looking to inspire curiosity, embrace change and cultivate innovative thinking.

Whether addressing a boardroom of executives, an audience of researchers or a theatre filled with students, Nuno's central message remains the same: curiosity is humanity's greatest competitive advantage, and the courage to ask better questions is the first step towards extraordinary discoveries.

Topics: 

The Chemistry of Curiosity (Flagship)

How the world's greatest discoveries reveal the mindset behind innovation

Curiosity is often celebrated, yet rarely understood. Drawing on decades at the frontiers of scientific discovery, Professor Nuno Maulide reveals what chemistry teaches us about creativity, innovation and breakthrough thinking. Through captivating stories, memorable demonstrations and practical insights, audiences discover how curiosity can be cultivated—not only in laboratories, but also in organisations, teams and everyday decision-making. This keynote challenges conventional thinking and leaves audiences looking at uncertainty, creativity and innovation through an entirely new lens.

Hope is Curiosity that Survived Failure

Why resilience begins long before success

Every scientific breakthrough is built upon setbacks, uncertainty and countless failed attempts. Yet failure alone teaches very little. What truly drives progress is the decision to remain curious despite disappointment. In this inspiring keynote, Nuno Maulide explores how individuals and organisations can transform uncertainty into opportunity by embracing experimentation, learning and intellectual courage. Combining science, storytelling and humour, he offers a powerful framework for building resilient cultures where innovation continues long after others have stopped trying.

The Science of Impossible Ideas

How extraordinary breakthroughs become reality

Many of history's greatest innovations initially sounded impossible. Why do some people recognise opportunities where others see obstacles? What allows certain teams to challenge assumptions and create entirely new possibilities? Drawing on remarkable stories from chemistry, science and his own research career, Professor Nuno Maulide explores the habits of mind behind genuine innovation. This keynote inspires audiences to think beyond conventional solutions, embrace intelligent risk-taking and unlock the creative potential that exists within every organisation.

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