
Credit: Yilei Wu
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

Creative Shot, Inc.
2024 Commencement

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.

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.
CHEM 93 - Chemistry Unleashed: Exploring the Chemistry that Transforms Our World
Ever wondered how chemistry weaves its magic into every fiber of our existence? Why does mint taste cool? What's the chemistry behind your favorite skincare product? How do molecules shape the taste of your food, or even, the feelings of love?
Enroll in CHEM 93, and join us this spring as we explore such fascinating questions each week with the guidance of expert speakers from diverse fields such as gastronomy, environmental science, aerospace engineering, medicine, and pharmaceuticals. They'll share the chemistry secrets that drive their respective industries, turning abstract chemical principles into tangible, real-world phenomena. This seminar course will bring chemistry out of the textbooks and into the real world, demonstrating its integral role in everyday life and industries. Join us to unravel the…
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.