Department of Chemistry

Could a department of chemistry hold more than chemicals and equations? The Department of Chemistry at the University of Crete, right here in Heraklion, proves it can. It holds dreams, discoveries, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. The Department of Chemistry, established in 1985, began as a small program for postgraduate studies. It blossomed just two years later, opening its doors to undergraduate students eager to explore the wonders of the molecular world. The department initially focused on postgraduate studies before expanding to undergraduate programs. This growth reflects the increasing importance of chemistry in our understanding of the world. Five core sections form the heart of the department: Inorganic, Organic, Physical, Environmental and Analytical Chemistry, and Biochemistry. Imagine the diverse research projects happening within these walls, from synthesizing new materials to analyzing the environment around us. Seventeen professors guide the next generation of chemists, nurturing roughly fifty undergraduates and five postgraduates annually. The Department of Chemistry isn’t just about lectures and textbooks. It’s about hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories. The department strives to provide students with practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. This combination prepares them for careers in various fields, from research to industry. In 2011, the department proudly earned the top rank in Greece in an external Quality Assessment Audit. This recognition underscores the department’s dedication to excellence in teaching and research. One notable achievement came in 2018 when a paper from Professor Vassilikogiannakis’ team became one of the most downloaded articles in Organic Letters. Their work on asymmetric and site-selective [3 + 2]-annulations highlighted the department’s contributions to organic chemistry. The Department of Chemistry at the University of Crete is more than a building. It is a hub of innovation, pushing the boundaries of chemical knowledge and inspiring future scientists.