Professor Ertl has been a member of the Leopoldina since 1986, where he joined the chemistry section. He is one of the leading scientists in the field of surface chemistry and interfacial reactions. His work provides the foundation for understanding catalytic processes and industrial catalysts and, for example, helps to comprehend the mechanisms of catalysts in cars and fuel cells. Surface chemical catalysts are crucial factors in many industrial processes, including the production of artificial fertilisers. Gerhard Ertl has been honoured with numerous national and international awards throughout his career. Ertl will receive the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, a distinction he does not have to share with colleagues, on his 71st birthday. The Leopoldina currently has 1,250 members worldwide, including 33 Nobel Prize winners.