.jpg)
About us
Our vision is to be a world-class department, recognised for innovation, excellence and cross-disciplinary reach. We aim to attract the best students and staff worldwide.
We aspire to be regarded as equal to any in the UK in terms of the quality of our teaching and research, and the calibre of the laboratories and facilities we offer.
The world faces many critical challenges, from the climate emergency and food security, to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Chemistry is central to solving these challenges, especially when it is applied across disciplinary boundaries. Our mission is to be a department that is a force for good by working to solve these global challenges through delivering the highest-impact research and teaching.
Related links
for Chemistry
in the 2025 Complete University Guide
in the UK for Chemistry
in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.
in the UK for research
with the majority of our research and impact rated as world leading - according to the Times Higher Education's ranking of the latest REF results (2021).
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Our department is committed to the advancement of gender equality. We recognise the importance of equal participation, progression and success for all. The Department of Chemistry strives to provide a working, learning, social and living environment that will enable all our staff and students to contribute fully, to flourish and to excel.
Our facilities
Our facilities provide you the opportunity to experiment and research using the latest technology within the industry. We have extensive analytical facilities and research centres built to suit the needs of every chemist from undergraduate to PhD and beyond.
Schools and public outreach
There are opportunities for school groups to visit the University to see some of the work that goes on in our laboratories. Members of the department go out to run activities in schools and at organised external events.
Our history
Chemistry at York has made remarkable progress since its early years. The original department was founded in 1965 by Professor Richard Norman with the support of Dr David Waddington. Their joint vision and dedication established a thriving community of researchers and students, which continues to this day.