A modern “Skeptical chemist”: How Angelo Gavezzotti contributed to our understanding of molecular crystals

Prof. Angelo Gavezzotti is an Italian physical chemist who spent most of his career at the Università degli Studi di Milano. If one were to identify a common thread throughout his scientific work, it would undoubtedly be the study of molecular recognition in its broadest sense, with the goal of understanding how and why molecular symmetry emerges from disorder during crystallization. In recognition of his lifelong contributions, Structural Chemistry is pleased to honor Angelo with a dedicated special collection. This introductory note outlines the motivations and aims of the project while offering a guided overview of the most significant scientific contributions that both longtime colleagues and newer collaborators have contributed to celebrate Angelo’s distinguished career.