University Chemical Laboratory

In 1958, Princess Margaret graced the University Chemical Laboratory in Cambridge with her presence, officially opening its doors. This marked a pivotal moment in the university’s long history with chemistry, a history stretching back over 300 years. The University Chemical Laboratory, a state-of-the-art facility on Lensfield Road, replaced the outdated Pembroke Street laboratory. This move, championed by Lord Alexander Todd, a Nobel laureate, signified the department’s growing prominence. The University Chemical Laboratory wasn’t just a new building. It was a symbol of the future of chemistry at Cambridge. The department’s history began humbly in 1702 with the appointment of Giovanni F. Vigani as the first professor of chemistry. Vigani, a pharmacist, held a close friendship with Sir Isaac Newton, who himself dabbled in alchemy in a secret Trinity College laboratory. The University Chemical Laboratory stands in stark contrast to these early days. The modern facility buzzes with the energy of nearly 600 staff, researchers, and students. This is a far cry from the small group who worked in the old Pembroke Street laboratory. The growth reflects the expansion and diversification of chemistry research at Cambridge. The University Chemical Laboratory is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents the evolution of chemistry. It’s a place where pioneering work is carried out. The spirit of discovery, from the alchemical experiments of Newton to the groundbreaking research of Nobel laureates like Norrish, Porter, and Todd, lives on. The University Chemical Laboratory continues to push the boundaries of chemical knowledge. The recent addition of the Unilever Centre for Molecular Informatics further strengthens its position. This center uses cutting-edge technology to accelerate scientific discovery. The University Chemical Laboratory stands as a testament to Cambridge’s commitment to staying at the forefront of chemical research.