About us

A researcher showing a 3-d printed chemical product.

Addressing challenges at the smallest scale

Chemistry is a diverse discipline, involving substances in every aspect of life – what we see, eat, smell, touch, and taste every day. With an equal emphasis on theory and practical work, Waterloo's chemistry undergraduate and graduate programs prepare you for a growing number of dynamic career options. You could be searching for the roots of crippling diseases, developing cancer-fighting drugs, or assessing environmental damage.

Meet our exceptional faculty

Chemistry is home to globally-recognized researchers and award-winning educators helping to mentor the next generation of chemists.

See what we're up to

Juewen Liu in the lab.

Chemistry researcher receives grant from Canadian Institutes of Health Research

Congratulations to Dr. Juewen Liu on receiving an $872,000 grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).

Apotex tour: group photo of students

Organic Process Chemistry students tour Apotex facility

Students in CHEM 363 gain a firsthand look at how chemical processes move from the lab to large-scale production.

Yangju Lin

What does polymer science have to do with building more sustainable batteries?

Dr. Yangju Lin combines polymer science with device applications to address practical challenges like sustainable energy.

Facilities and centres

Chemistry is also home to a number of research and analysis facilities and affiliated with centres and institutes across campus.

Research areas

Our faculty conduct research in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, quantum information, nanotechnology, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and polymer chemistry.