Chemistry at UB
Where curiosity meets real-world impact
At the University at Buffalo, chemistry isn’t just a subject—it’s a gateway to solving real-world problems. In the Department of Chemistry, curiosity turns into discovery, and ideas turn into action. Whether you're diving into hands-on research as an undergraduate, tackling global challenges as a grad student or finding your next step as a current UB student, you’ll find your place here—with the guidance and resources to grow.
Learn about:
We’re a lively, collaborative department fueled by a mix of experience, ambition and fresh ideas. With 32 full-time faculty and 14 professional staff, we mentor more than 150 graduate and 200 undergraduate students each year.
What makes us different? Big opportunities with a small-community feel—where you're supported, seen and set up to succeed. We offer degrees in chemistry and medicinal chemistry, and provide foundational courses for students across UB studying health, science and engineering.
Our faculty are leading researchers and dedicated mentors who help connect classroom learning to real-world breakthroughs.
Professor Diana Aga (left) and her PhD student Mindula Wijayahena working on research to demonstrate a bacteria's biodegradation of a forever chemical.
Here, you’ll do more than study chemistry—you’ll live it. Our research centers on the chemistry of health and sustainability, with impact across medicine, clean energy, sustainable materials and more.
We’re known for strengths in:
You’ll work side-by-side with faculty on high-impact projects that matter. It’s collaborative, hands-on and designed to help you build confidence, expertise and a strong résumé.
And yes, parents—our students graduate with practical experience and career-ready skills.
Chemistry is the engine behind the breakthroughs that shape our world. From clean water and safer medicine to new batteries and smarter materials, chemistry leads the way.
With a UB chemistry degree, you’ll be ready to:
- Teach and inspire future scientists
- Design game-changing materials
- Discover and develop new therapies
- Shape environmental or health policy
- Tackle complex global challenges head-on
You won’t just graduate with knowledge—you’ll walk away with purpose, direction and the ability to make a real impact.
Why UB?
Buffalo is more than a college town—it’s a community that welcomes you in. Known as the City of Good Neighbors, it offers a mix of affordability, opportunity and connection that makes it easy to feel at home.
- Affordable cost of living—yes, that's a win for families
- Inclusive, welcoming neighborhoods
- Quick access to major cities like Toronto and New York
- A growing food, culture and innovation scene
Stay for four years or a lifetime. Either way, Buffalo will feel like home.
Explore our programs and find the one that fits your goals: