Chemistry
As chemists, we develop miraculous, new materials and environmental solutions.
We apply analytical chemistry to ensure safe drinking water, air quality and a hazard free environment. We study protein and nucleic acid function and the molecular basis of disease. We investigate and synthesise new medicinal marvels. We are focused on ways to make and deliver sustainable, future energy sources, including hydrogen.
Our internationally recognised research and teaching focuses on chemistry in all its forms including understanding how to develop new synthetic transformations and make chemicals such as plastics, future fuels and pharmaceuticals.
Research
Our sought-after chemists work across applied projects in health, environment, wine and food, energy technology and defence. Our research involves many innovative technologies which are influencing the discipline, including advanced synthetic techniques, synthetic biology, synchrotron science, advanced mass spectrometry, new computational methods, and the use of lasers to probe reaction chemistry.
Across all areas, spanning from analytical chemistry, through inorganic and macromolecular and materials chemistry, medicinal and biological chemistry and physical chemistry, our research has been rated by Australian Research Council’s Excellence in Research Australia (ERA) as ‘well above world standard’.
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Extensive undergraduate teaching
Undergraduate
As one of the broadest sciences, Chemistry is one of the longest running disciplines at the University of Adelaide, with a rich history of influential scientists.
Our award-winning researchers are the same people that teach our undergraduates, and their ground-breaking work informs our curriculum. Our programs are also accredited by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI). This includes the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Science (Advanced); and chemistry research projects at honours level.
All study is underpinned by experiential learning and access to world-leading laboratory facilities.
Honours
Enhance your research and reporting skills, indicate strong commitment, ability and creative thinking to your future employer by completing this prestigious qualification.
Majors and career opportunities
The problem solving and analytical skills learnt through our chemistry majors and double majors can be applied to many industries and careers including (but not limited to): chemical and pharmaceutical, medical, agricultural and forensic sciences, environmental monitoring and control, mining, nanotechnology, manufacturing and food technology, research laboratories and education. Our majors can also complement other areas such as biochemistry, biotechnology and biophysics.
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Higher Degrees by Research (HDR)
Whether planning to work in research or industry or to upskill to change jobs, our Higher Degrees by Research provide additional insight and deliver a competitive career edge.
We have postgraduate students working in all areas of research and supported by research training scholarships, industry, and cooperative research centre funding.
We offer two postgraduate research degrees:
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The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a two-year full-time (or part-time commitment) and teaches you about applying research methodology to critically evaluate literature and results in your field.
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The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is our flagship research award and is the standard qualification for a research career or academic position. Study a research degree in an area of interest and be supported by one of our highly talented research supervisors.
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Scholarships
The University offers scholarships to undergraduate and postgraduate students. These scholarships (as well as many others) funded by industry and non-profit organisations, are available to potential and currently enrolled students.
Contacts
Postgraduate coordinator
Associate Professor Stephen Bell
Tel: +61 8 8313 4822
stephen.bell@adelaide.edu.au