Science Chemistry

Welcome to the School of Chemistry

The School of Chemistry is a leading centre for both teaching and research excellence in chemistry in Australia.
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UNSW chemistry students

Most employable students

UNSW Sydney

#1 in Australia for employment outcomes QS World University Rankings, 2027 and #1 in the AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards.

#1 in Australia for research output in Chemistry

Nature Index Institution Outputs 1 April 2025 - 31 March 2026

#1 in Australia, top 20 globally

UNSW Sydney

QS World University Rankings, 2027
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Latest news

Bubble problem solved: linking porous electrode design to green hydrogen production

UNSW researchers use precise 3D imaging to reveal how trapped bubbles affect the efficacy of electrolysers in the production of green hydrogen.

Jun 11, 2026
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Congratulations to our 2025 Chemistry Prize Winners

Feb 26, 2026
School of Chemistry

‘Blood cobalt’ is disappearing from batteries – and cheaper, cleaner batteries are arriving

Big batteries used in electric vehicles and grid storage have long relied on metals with tarnished supply chains. But this is changing.

Feb 20, 2026
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From UNSW lab to global impact: UNSW spinout receives $US1.4m

OxyLo, a spinout company co-founded by UNSW Science Professor Kristopher Kilian and former UNSW Postdoctoral Researcher Dr Tom Molley, has received $US1.4m for their novel approach to treating cancer.

Sep 02, 2025
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Study areas

Students working on experiments in the Chemical Science building UNSW.

Chemistry

Study the world from the ground up with chemistry – from the sub-atomic, atomic and molecular to the spectacular. Whether you're looking to dive deep into quantum chemistry or have a passion for synthesising new products, the opportunities in chemistry are vast.
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Medicinal chemistry

Medicinal chemistry involves the development of new pharmaceutical agents, from concept to clinic. It's an exciting, rapidly-expanding area within the broad discipline of chemistry that has seen enormous growth recently both within Australia and globally.
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Research & impact

A science lab

Our research

The School of Chemistry at UNSW is recognised nationally and internationally, for producing world-class fundamental and applied research in the field of chemical sciences to address real-world challenges.
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Research groups

Find out why our chemistry research groups are renowned locally and internationally for their research. Learn more about our research groups.
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Research centres

Our research centres are internationally recognised for their multidisciplinary approach that brings together expertise from a range of fields. We're committed to solving some of the biggest, most challenging problems facing the world.

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