Chemistry

The Oxford Chemistry course extends from the borders of atomic and molecular physics on the one hand to the biological sciences on the other. The teaching of Chemistry in Worcester is intended to develop both enjoyment and critical understanding of the subject, and is by a combination of tutorials and classes which are closely related to the University lectures and practical classes. All chemists are tutored in the three main branches of the subject, organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, together with the necessary mathematics. The College encourages the development of specialised interests by the study of Supplementary Subjects in the second, third or fourth year; all students have a free choice of research topic in the fourth year.

Professor Ritchie’s (physical chemistry) research focuses on the application of laser-based spectroscopic techniques to a variety of fundamental and applied problems in the areas of gas phase reaction dynamics, plasma chemistry and medical diagnostics. Professor McCulloch’s (organic chemistry) research concerns the use of new organic semiconducting materials in fields such as photovoltaics, electronics, biosensors and solar fuels. Professor Chippindale (inorganic chemistry) uses X-ray crystallography to study the relationship between the solid state structures of inorganic compounds and their properties.