UBC Chemistry

05/27/2026

Congratulations to the UBC Chemistry Class of 2026!

Our undergraduate and graduate students have shown remarkable dedication, perseverance, and passion throughout their academic journeys. We are incredibly proud of all that you have accomplished and look forward to seeing the meaningful contributions you will make in the years ahead. We wish you every success as you embark on your next chapter. Tuum est!

A special thank you to Professor David MacMillan for joining us to celebrate and share inspiring words with our graduating class.

05/09/2026

✨ Thank you for an amazing Science Rendezvous with Chemistry! 🧪💙

We loved welcoming curious minds of all ages into our spaces today—thank you to everyone who came out to learn, play, and explore with us! From hands‑on chemistry to liquid nitrogen ice cream made right before your eyes 🍨❄️, and high‑energy chemistry shows featuring colours, materials, and fuels your excitement made the day unforgettable. UBC ScienceScience Rendezvous

05/08/2026

Vancouver researchers have created a new way to build radioactive DNA molecules using enzymes that could help reimagine how radiolabeled drugs are built.

Using enzymes that normally copy genetic material, scientists at UBC Chemistry and the BC Cancer Research Institute programmed synthetic DNA to carry cancer-fighting isotopes in precise patterns, opening the door to developing drugs that could both image tumors and destroy them with the same molecule.

Read more at the link in our bio.

04/17/2026

A new UBC-led initiative, Track & Trace, aims to make a real difference in the toxic drug crisis.

The initiative builds on nearly a decade of work by UBC researchers. The concept first emerged in 2016, when chemistry professors Drs. Glenn Sammis and Dan Bizzotto began exploring how their expertise could be applied to the newly declared public health emergency.

“The program’s focus is on supply patterns and prevention, not arresting people,” said Dr. Sammis. “We want this to have a real-life positive impact on people’s lives. That’s what we’re all trying to achieve: no deaths, fewer overdoses, and better managed care. We want this technology to be useful, and used.”

🔗 https://www.chem.ubc.ca/ubc-researchers-aim-deliver-earlier-warnings-toxic-drug-supply

04/17/2026

04/12/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Chemistry Spring Alumni Reunion — it was truly special to reconnect and celebrate our amazing community.

From catching up with old friends to making new connections, the day was filled with laughter, meaningful conversations, and inspiring talks from our guest speakers. See you next year! UBC Science alumni UBC

04/03/2026

Join us for our Spring Alumni Reunion on April 11, 2026!

RSVP and more info: https://www.chem.ubc.ca/outreach-and-alumni-activities-2025-26

We are excited to invite you to the 2026 Chemistry Alumni Reunion on Saturday April 11, 2026! This special event will bring together alumni, faculty members, and current students.

Hear guest lectures from accomplished alumni and faculty with a networking reception to follow. This is a free event and will include a prize draw!

Advanced registration is required, more info & RSVP here: https://www.chem.ubc.ca/outreach-and-alumni-activities-2025-26

03/17/2026

VSP 2025 Chemistry Recap 🔬✨

From hands-on experiments in the lab to in-class discussions with UBC professors, this summer was filled with discovery, collaboration, and unforgettable experiences.

Students explored Vancouver’s iconic spots, visited TRIUMF (Canada’s national particle accelerator centre),and learned both inside and outside the classroom. Beyond the lab, students built friendships, explored Vancouver, and experienced campus life at UBC.

Thank you to our amazing students and instructors for an incredible summer. 💙
We can’t wait to welcome the next cohort!

✨Interested in joining us this year?✨
📌Applications for the 2026 VSP Chemistry program are open now — apply by April 17!
🔗 https://www.chem.ubc.ca/vancouver-summer-program

03/08/2026

We loved welcoming girls and female identifying students to our department for a day of inspiration and discovery. 🔬💙

From hands on experiments and research lab tours to an empowering panel featuring women leaders in chemistry, the day was filled with curiosity, connection, and community.

Thank you to everyone who joined us! UBC Science

03/06/2026

UBC Chemistry alum Dr. Sherry Zhao has founded a biotech company that's developing a method to spay and neater dogs and cats with injections instead of surgery. alumni UBC

https://science.ubc.ca/alumni/profiles/sherry-zhao