Research
The Department of Chemistry covers research in 7 areas: Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry, Chemistry-Biology Interface, Materials Chemistry and
Applying to the Ph.D. Program
Doctoral study in chemistry at Stanford University prepares students for research and teaching careers with diverse emphases in basic, life, medical, physical, energy, materials, and environmental
Center for Molecular Analysis and Design
The Center for Molecular Analysis and Design is directed at advancing the frontiers of chemistry and chemistry-driven research across all scientific disciplines.
Photo Credit: Ben Lin
Community Outreach
Our outreach programs provide high school and K–5 students and teachers with opportunities to learn and interact with young scientists who are passionate about chemistry.
Ben Binhong Lin, Stanford University
Study Tips for Chemistry
Just as you need to take time to practice for sports or learn a foreign language, you need to take time to practice chemistry.
Image credit: Kurt Hickman and Harry Gregory
Carolyn Bertozzi wins Nobel Prize in chemistry
Stanford chemist Carolyn Bertozzi was awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry for her development of bioorthogonal reactions, which allow scientists to explore cells and track biological processes without disrupting the normal chemistry of the cell.
Fostering a Culture of Respect
The Department of Chemistry is committed to fostering a respectful workplace culture. We strive to cultivate a safe, inclusive and fair environment where our staff, faculty, researchers and students can thrive as they advance new chemical frontiers through research, innovation, collaboration and scholarship.
Message from the Chair
Steven G. Boxer
Camille Dreyfus Professor of Chemistry
Chair, Department of Chemistry
Welcome to the Chemistry Department!
The students and faculty in our Department explore a broad range of atomic and molecular systems, create new forms of matter, and develop experimental and theoretical tools to understand and control the behavior of electrons, atoms, molecules and materials – to the benefit of science and society. Some of our research groups focus on core aspects of physical and synthetic chemistry, while others explore open questions at the interface with materials science, energy science, catalysis, neuroscience, chemical biology, and biophysics. We are dedicated to developing the next generation of scholars in the chemical sciences and building an inclusive learning environment.
Our Department is located in close proximity to other Departments in the natural sciences - biology, physics, applied physics, statistics and mathematics - the Schools of Engineering and Medicine, as well many interdisciplinary centers and state-of-the-art shared facilities, making Stanford a rich environment for our students and faculty. SLAC, housing the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lab, the ultra-fast x-ray laser and many other resources, are close by. Our outstanding facilities and beautiful location south of San Francisco provide an exceptional environment for teaching and research.
