Discovery and innovation
Chemistry is core to advances across every facet of human life
Where do the greatest opportunities lie? How will technology shape the science we create? And what steps should we take to ensure that curiosity-driven research continues to unlock new opportunities in unexpected ways?
In close collaboration with the research community, we set out the likely future of where chemistry’s greatest contributions will be – as well as the regulatory and funding environments needed to achieve them.
Our campaigns
Find our perspectives on a range of issues related to Discovery. Elsewhere on this page and across our website you can read research reports, policy positions and engagement activities.
Researchers’ voice on open access
Giving chemical sciences researchers a strong voice in the global conversation about open access.
Science horizons
Science needs the right environment to fulfil its potential. We identify the essential enablers for science to help society today and tomorrow.
University-business engagement
Evidence about how university chemistry departments in the UK and Ireland engage with businesses to support their activities.
Unlocking innovation
We explore why deep tech chemistry ventures can get stuck without access to suitable labs to research or scale-up, and what we can do about it.
Workforce trends and economic impact
This study provides evidence on the scale and skills of the UK’s chemistry-using workforce and its direct and indirect contribution to the UK economy.
Recent news and activities
27 May 2025
10 April 2025
02 April 2025
26 March 2025
19 March 2025
24 February 2025
13 February 2025
Our research community
Re-thinking excellence in research - RSC signs DORA
We are the first major chemical society to sign up to the declaration’s principles to assess research outputs in a fair and balanced manner.
Article
Publish open access
Choosing to publish open access is easy and straightforward – and it is possible in every Royal Society of Chemistry journal.
Review for us
The benefits of becoming a peer reviewer and how to apply.
Change Makers
Powering positive change through deep tech chemistry.
Explore the UK's home of deep tech chemistry
Get involved
Our member community
Opportunities for members to connect with others in our community, to suit your situation or career.
Research Fund
Supporting members with limited access to research funds to start new projects.
Our prizes
Recognising excellence in the chemical sciences.
About our events
Our events span the entire landscape of the chemical sciences and shape the future of chemistry.