This cluster of papers explores the diverse applications of N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) in catalysis, organometallic chemistry, and materials science. It covers topics such as the synthesis, coordination chemistry, steric and electronic properties, asymmetric catalysis, and the use of NHCs in materials chemistry. The papers also discuss the role of NHCs in various catalytic reactions and their potential applications in medicinal, luminescent, and functional materials.