Chemistry was one of the first subjects to be offered at UCL, England’s newest university in 500 years, with the department opening in 1828. UCL Chemistry: 200 years of Innovation and Discovery explored the achievements and ideas that have shaped one of UCL’s oldest departments. 

As well as talks and short films, we have re-created moments from key Victorian-era experiments using original apparatus as well as modern tools.

Key moments narrated in the event showcased the discovery of the noble gases – a whole new section of the periodic table. For this achievement Sir William Ramsay, UCL professor of chemistry, was awarded the Nobel prize.

We explored the work of Dame Kathleen Lonsdale, UCL’s first female professor who laid the foundations of the field of crystallography – the study of the atomic structure of crystals.

We also talked about students known as the “Chōshū Five”: the five young men who had left Japan in secret to learn about the customs and technology of the west. They studied analytical chemistry under Professor Alexander Williamson, who also served as their guardian. After returning home they played a role in Japan’s modernisation.

Professor Claire Carmalt, Head of the UCL Department of Chemistry, commented: “It was such a fantastic and entertaining journey through 200 years of UCL Chemistry covering four periods of our history starting with Williamson and the Chōshū Five, to Ramsay, through WW2 with Lonsdale and Ingold and ending at the present day.”

Dean of the Faculty Professor Ivan Parkin, who is also a renowned chemist, summarised: “This was a superb event detailing the history of the Chemistry department and celebration of UCL200 from its origins in 1828 to the present day.

“The four presenters gave a real historical feel of what chemistry was like in the lab.  Many pivotal moments from the department were covered including the discovery of the noble gases, Williamson’s ether synthesis, the structure of Benzene and the first medical X-ray. The key scientific importance of the work of UCL first female professor (1949) Katherine Lonsdale was celebrated.”

Dr River Riley, Associate Professor and one of the key organisers of the event, reflected: “Never would I have imagined that I would be producing, directing, and performing in a theatre production when I joined the Department of Chemistry as an Associate Lecturer (Teaching) in 2021. Yet diving deep into our chemistry archives to bring the rich and fascinating history of our department to the stage has been one of the most joyous experiences of my career. 

“Not only was it a privilege to learn more about our historical importance across two centuries, but it was also fascinating to discover the stories of the people who made us who we are today. Working with such a talented and devoted team across the faculty to create this show has only strengthened my belief that it is still the people in our community who define our history. My thanks to everyone involved and to those who came to see the show!”

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  • UCL Chemistry staff who presented and assisted at UCL Chemistry: 200 years of Innovation and Discovery taking a bow at the end of the show