Our aims
The aims of the Organic Chemistry Community are to:
- Promote excellence, sustainability, and the exchange of knowledge in the areas of organic chemistry, including a focus on the next generation
- Support scientists across all sectors and career stages working in the field of organic chemistry in its broadest interpretation
- Foster and strengthen collaborations between organic chemistry and the wider scientific research community
- Support and promote all areas of inclusion and diversity across organic chemistry
- Influence policymakers on issues related to organic chemistry
Members of the Council are responsible for ensuring that the Community is fulfilling its purpose.
Find out about current Council vacancies.
The Organic Division was established in 1972 following the amalgamation of a number of bodies and the establishment of a new organisational structure for the then Chemical Society and Royal Institute of Chemistry. Details are described in the publication “The UUÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ of Chemistry: The First 150 Years” by David H Whiffen.
The Chemical Society and the Royal Institute of Chemistry then merged in 1980 to become the UUÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ of Chemistry.
In 2022 the Organic Division transitioned to the Organic Chemistry Community to better reflect its purpose.
Past Presidents (1972 – present)
2019 - 2022 Professor Stuart J Conway
2016 - 2019 Professor Alison N Hulme
2013 - 2016 Professor Ray C F Jones
2010-2013 Dr David Rees
2007-2010 Professor Sue E Gibson
2004-2007 Professor Ray C F Jones
2001-2004 Professor Richard J K Taylor
1999-2001 Professor Philip Kocienski
1997-1999 Professor E Jim Thomas
1995-1997 Professor Gerry Pattenden
1993-1995 Professor Steven J Ley
1991-1993 Professor Bob Ramage
1989-1991 Professor Charles J M Stirling
1987-1989 Professor Cedric R Hassall
1985-1987 Professor Alan R Battersby
1983-1985 Professor W David Ollis
1981-1983 Professor Charles W Rees
1979-1981 Professor Ralph Raphael
1976-1979 Professor Leslie Crombie (3 year appointment due to then nominated Perkin President being nominated for UUÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ President)
1974-1976 Professor George W Kenner
1972-1974 Professor Maurice Stacey
D H R Barton appointed in 1972 but did not take office as a result of being nominated as UUÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ President-Elect on the death of Jack Linnett.
Organic Chemistry Case Studies
The Organic Chemistry Community Council is developing a series of scientific case studies to highlight the role and importance of organic synthesis in every aspect of life (including drugs, sustainable energy, green chemistry, agricultural productivity, electronics, and the economy). Some of the case studies cover new areas that will make big improvements in human activities in the future - keep up to date with these developments by clicking on the links below.
Explore the organic chemistry case studies
- Organic Chemistry Helps Feed the World
- Organic Chemists Fighting Blindness
- Organic Synthesis to help treat Lung Cancer
- Protecting the Environment with Green Chemistry
- Harnessing Solar Energy with Organic Photovoltaics
- Organic Chemists Developing Plastic Electronics
- Organic Chemistry Contributing to Flavours and Fragrances
- Organic Chemists Contributing to Dyes and Colours
- Organic Chemists Contributing to Whole Genome Sequencing
A number of resources including careers support, managing professional development and mentoring is available to UUÂãÁÄÖ±²¥ of Chemistry Members. Visit the individual webpages for more information:
Explore the Organic Chemistry Community
Contact us
- Tel:
- +441223432689
- Email:
- James Anson