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Department of Chemistry

Frontier research, innovation, and education in the molecular sciences.

Study with us

Our courses in chemistry provide the opportunity for you to study the structure and reactivity of molecular systems as you explore new and impactful research.

You'll become a versatile chemist, ready to collaborate in various areas of science and technology.

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Research

Our research applies internationally leading expertise to find solutions to the key challenges faced by society.

A vibrant and collaborative research environment with themes and expertise spanning across many areas.  These include chemical and structural biology, atmospheric science, catalysis, materials, sustainable and green chemistry, molecular measurement technologies and digital chemistry.

Explore our research

Equality, diversity and inclusion

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.

We were the first department in the UK to receive the Athena Swan Gold award for our commitment to gender equality in higher education, making us the longest-held recipient of the Gold award on record.

Find out about our culture

We pride ourselves on being a department that achieves excellence in our research and our teaching, through outstanding people and great facilities. There is a strong sense of community among the staff and students, and we work hard to be inclusive and welcoming, ensuring that everyone can achieve their full potential.

Dr Derek Wann, Head of Department

We stand against bullying and discrimination. We’re dedicated to maintaining a safe, inclusive and respectful community, free from discrimination, bullying and harassment. It’s a core value of our Department, and key to the way we work and support each other.

in the Complete University Guide 2026.
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).
demonstrating our strong and longstanding commitment to gender equality.
in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.

News

News

10 December 2025

Congratulations to all Chemistry@York individuals and teams highlighted at this year’s University of York Inclusive Impact Awards.

News

9 December 2025

A sunscreen molecule that encounters metal ions can absorb light in a very different way.

News

8 December 2025

De-icing fluids are typically sprayed on aircraft to remove ice, while anti-icing agents prevent the build-up of ice, providing so-called ‘holdover protection’. Such fluids play a vital role in the safe operation of aircraft in low-temperature conditions. They are based on glycol/water solvent mixtures, with anti-icing fluids having polymer additives that generate a barrier to inhibit ice formation.

News

3 December 2025

Recent global regulations have significantly reduced sulfur emissions from ships, something that has been confirmed by a new study led by researchers from the Department of Chemistry at the University of York and National Centre for Atmospheric Science.

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