About the School of Chemistry

Learn about our history, values and the people that make the School of Chemistry what it is.

Muthupandian Ashokkumar -
Muthupandian Ashokkumar
Head, School of Chemistry

Head of School's Welcome

The School of Chemistry is part of the Faculty of Science and one of the largest and oldest in Australia with a distinguished history in teaching and research.

The first lectures in chemistry in The University of Melbourne were given in 1856, only three years after the University was founded. Our School has over 3000 undergraduates enrolled in Chemistry subjects and more than 100 research higher degree students. The School is home to 25 continuing teaching & research staff, over 40 research only and 15 professional staff.

The School has an excellent international reputation in research and maintains high levels of external research funding. We heavily invest in maintaining our research facilities at world standard, which has involves progressive upgrades of the School's laboratories, instrumentation renewal, and recruitment of academics with a strong research profile.

The School of Chemistry is a key participant in the Bio21 Molecular Science & Biotechnology Institute, a major biotechnology initiative in Victoria. Our research groups are based in both the Bio21 Institute building and the Chemistry Masson building. Collectively, we have excellent facilities and a strongly collaborative spirit that provides a dynamic interdisciplinary environment.

We invite you to browse our website and welcome inquiries from students interested in pursuing studies in our undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Muthupandian Ashokkumar
Head, School of Chemistry

Get in contact

Interested in graduate courses or research opportunities, or in collaborating or partnering with our School? Please get in touch.

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