The chemical sciences are making the world a better place—and we are here to help.
The impact of our community is incredible: developing drugs, vaccines, and diagnostic tools when the world needs them most; keeping our food and water safe, clean, and plentiful; creating revolutionary technologies to generate and store clean energy; and inspiring generations of young people to explore fulfilling careers and lives.
Our new strategy outlines how we will support the chemical sciences through four key pillars:
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Teach and Learn
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Discover and Share
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Apply and Achieve
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Speak Out and Be Heard
Together, we strive for a world that is more open, sustainable, and equitable.
Our Mission
Since 1841, the Royal Society of Chemistry has promoted excellence in chemical sciences. It was founded as the Chemical Society of London by 77 scientists—including doctors, scholars, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs—with Thomas Graham serving as the first president.
Seven years later, Queen Victoria granted the society a Royal Charter, recognizing its mission to advance the general improvement of chemical sciences.
Over 175 years later, our mission remains relevant and impactful. Today, we carry forward the work of our historic institutions on a scale unimaginable to the original members. With over 54,000 members worldwide, the RSC is now an internationally recognized non-profit publisher and knowledge enterprise, with a reputation as a champion of chemical sciences.
About Us
Royal Charter
Our Royal Charter, first granted in 1848 and updated over time, forms the core of our work in chemical sciences. It outlines our purpose, objectives, and governance structure.
History
We take pride in our traditions and build on them to achieve an ambitious future. Explore our 175-year history and learn how we became a world-leading chemical society.
Strategy
Discover our organizational strategic priorities and how we leverage our people and resources to fulfill our mission: connecting people to chemical sciences through knowledge, skills, and community.
Structure & Governance
Learn about our governance structure, including the Board of Trustees, Council, committees, and specialist communities.
Partnerships
We establish strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations to deliver educational programs, scientific policy initiatives, and international development projects.
Corporate Documents
Our reports summarize our strategy, activities, and impact to stakeholders including members and the charity commission.
Careers
Find out more about working at the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Donate
Learn how to donate, leave a gift in your will, and discover how your contributions help us advance the chemical sciences.
Explore Our History
Our Origins
Our history traces back to our predecessor societies: the Chemical Society, Society for Analytical Chemistry, Royal Institute of Chemistry, and Faraday Society.
175th Anniversary
As the world’s oldest chemical society, we proudly celebrated our 175th anniversary in 2016.
Burlington House
Discover how Burlington House became the home of the Royal Society of Chemistry and seven other learned societies.
Honorary Fellows
Learn about 114 Honorary Fellows recognized by our board for their outstanding contributions.
Past Presidents
Since 1841, presidents elected from our members have led the organization. We have prepared a PDF booklet detailing the history of these presidents and their achievements.
Chemical Society World War Memorial
A PDF memorial booklet commemorates the 82 members who died in World War I, honoring their contribution and sacrifice.
