School of Chemistry

Chemistry in health care

The search for medical diagnostics – Dr Julie Fisher

Chemistry research at the interface of biochemistry with mathematics or physics has been established for some time. Chemistry research in the health care environment represents a new interaction with all of these interfaces at once, leading to the identification biomarkers of disease which may then be used in diagnostic tests in the clinic.
Book now

Growing modern medicine

Medicinal chemistry is at the root! - Prof Colin Fishwick

Almost all early medicines were derived from natural sources and many powerful modern drugs are still obtained from nature. Now chemists are able to apply a variety of reactions and methods to these naturally-derived molecules to produce even more potent medicines.
Book now

Our atmosphere

Chemistry does matter! - Prof Dwayne Heard

This presentation will look at our changing atmosphere and how chemistry is intimately involved in all the important issues that face society today, for example global warming, the ozone hole, and urban air pollution.
Book now

Did life on Earth begin on Earth?

Panspermia and life in the Cosmos - Dr Terry Kee

Did terrestrial life begin upon an isolated Earth or is it to the stars above that we need to look for answers to where and how it all began some 4 billion years ago?
Book now

Chemistry within, chemistry without

Chemistry within, chemistry without - Dr Patrick McGowan

Why does ice float? How does water dissolve salt? This talk considers everyday objects such as water, soap, washing powder (and others) and examines the chemistry associated with these substances.
Book now

Looking in the mirror

Looking in the mirror - Prof Adam Nelson

The shape of molecules impinges on the properties of molecules including drugs and flavourings. Using examples from the everyday world, this presentation will explore the properties of 'mirror image' molecules.
Book now

Water is life

Water is life - Prof Andrew Nelson

This talk and demonstration will discuss the peculiar properties of water, a substance which is the basis of our very existence. Demonstrations will show some fascinating aspects of water chemistry in particular those relating to water quality in the environment.
Book now

Chemistry and the rhythms of life

Chemistry and the rhythms of life – Dr Annette Taylor

Nature is filled with rhythmical processes, from the beating of your heart to the flashing of fireflies. This talk examines how chemists try to understand the rhythmical production of chemicals in biology and how these rhythms govern the remarkable behaviour of some natural systems such as the transition from single cells to a multi-cellular organism in slime mould.
Book now

The psychology and perception of colour and shape

Illusion and delusion, choice and selection - Prof. Jim Guthrie

We live in a colourful, shape-filled world. This talk looks at how the psychology and perception of colour and shape are influenced by various external factors, related to the senses of touch, taste, hearing, smell and sight. Suitable for all ages.
Book now