Who are We?

The Chemistry department hosted students through a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REM) summer program. The group was photographed in August 2023 in a lab in the Natural Sciences Complex. Photographer: Douglas Levere.

Where discovery meets community

At the University at Buffalo, chemistry doesn’t just happen in the lab—it happens in the community. We believe science works best when everyone has a seat at the table and feels empowered to speak up, collaborate and lead. We’re proud to be home to students, faculty and staff from around the world. The Department of Chemistry is a place where unique stories, perspectives and experiences aren’t just welcomed, they’re essential.

On this page:

Get involved at UB?

Community is a big part of feeling supported—and UB has plenty of ways to connect, lead and grow outside the classroom.

Our Commitment

The Department of Chemistry is a research- and education-focused community working toward a common goal of scientific excellence. We strive to be welcoming and inclusive for everyone.

We actively foster an environment where every voice matters, and we facilitate opportunities for members of the department to engage as professionals and individuals.

Chemistry around the world

The Department of Chemistry is truly global. The map below shows the hometowns of our students, postdocs, faculty and staff—each one bringing something valuable to the table.

World map with pins showing where UB chemists are from.

Meet our College Ambassadors

These students represent the best of UB Chemistry — curious, creative and always ready to help others find their place here.

College Ambassador head shot.

Gabe Dietzman

(she/her)

Major: Chemistry

Campus/community involvement: Honors College, UB Bees, WiSE (Women in Science and Engineering), chemistry research

Fun fact: Bees are my favorite animals.

What advice do you have for future UB students?
Try everything. One of the advantages of having a big university is having tons of opportunities. Not everything will be your cup of tea but you won’t know if something is for you unless you try it.

College Ambassador head shot.

Howell Phillips

(he/him)

Majors: Chemistry and Studio Art

Campus/community involvement: Honors College, Wood Lab, UB's LGTBQA club

Fun fact: I do art in my free time that usually involves my cat Leon. 

What do you like best about your department?
I like the faculty in the chemistry department and how dedicated they are to student success. There are a ton of research opportunities, and the openness of faculty makes getting involved very simple. 

College Ambassador Head shot.

Elliet Strang

(he/him)

Major: Combined Chemistry BA/Chemistry Education EdM

Campus/community involvement: Academic assistant, Chem Club member, Honors College, resident assistant, student assistant

Fun fact: I can remember exactly who showed me any song that I love listening to.

What advice do you have for future UB students?
My advice would be to become an extrovert if you aren't one! Meeting new people and becoming a part of the campus community is the single best thing about college. Everyone is super friendly, and you want to make sure to use your four years here to the best pf your ability!

Stories that shape us

Here are members of the UB Department of Chemistry community who bring new ideas, perspectives and energy to our department.

  • “Mindula Wijyayahena”
    5/27/25

    From Gampola in the Kandy District of Sri Lanka, Mindula’s hometown is known for its biodiversity, history and natural beauty. Her cultural roots and global perspective inspire her research and curiosity in the lab.

  • “Madison Williams”
    5/27/25

    Madison grew up in Fresno, California—the heart of America’s food basket. Living close to national parks and a wide range of environments sparked her love of science and shaped her approach to understanding the world around her.

  • “Dr. Emanuela Gionfriddo”
    10/24/25

    Originally from southern Italy, Dr. Gionfriddo earned her PhD at the University of Calabria and studied in Canada. The cultural differences she experienced helped her embrace and celebrate diversity in science and beyond.

  • “Dulan Edirisinghe”
    5/27/25

    Dulan always dreamed of becoming a scientist. He studied at the University of Peradeniya, one of Sri Lanka’s top institutions, and found his passion in chemistry’s connection to the natural world.

Tools and Resources