Chemistry plays an essential role in creating a sustainable future for our planet, and the Department of ChemistryLink opens in a new window is dedicated to preparing students with knowledge and skills to tackle current and future challenges. Global Citizenship and awareness of social issues are the priorities of the department, who aim to help students apply their skills to real-world problems in preparation for their future career.

Global Citizenship Curriculum

Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is at the core of the curriculum in the department. A number of modules have been developed to foster student co-creation, interdisciplinary learning, real-world problem-solving and critical thinking skills to develop a solution to a problem linked to the UN SDGs:

CH169 Beyond ScienceLink opens in a new window

Chemistry and Sustainability (forthcoming 2024/2025)

CH3G4 Innovation 101Link opens in a new window

CH3F7 Energy Link opens in a new window

For example, the Year 1 module CH169 Beyond Science was co-created with students to help them learn how to work in diverse teams, develop research skills, and focus on the impact they can have in relation to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The module complements core Chemistry modules by engaging learners in interdisciplinary concepts related to real-world problem-solving, giving students the tools to work with complexity, uncertainty, and create innovations that they communicate publicly. The module targets a number of skills, such as interdisciplinary decision making and problem-solving skills, and creative and critical thinking skills to help students find new ways to apply their Chemistry skills beyond their degree.

The Department of Chemistry will also be hosting and co-delivering new inter/transdisciplinary MSc programmes in Global Decarbonisation and Climate ChangeLink opens in a new window in 2024. These programmes were developed as part of STEM Connect, together with the departments of Engineering, Life Sciences, WMG, Politics, Law, Sociology, Global Sustainable Development, and the Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning. These new courses will bring together expertise from these departments and emphasise problem-solving for sustainable futures. Students will systematically interpret the transition to net-zero, encompassing topics such as renewably produced and distributed energy, lifecycle (eco)design, sustainable food systems, and investment in nature-based solutions and sustainable infrastructure. These programmes aim to equip students with a holistic understanding of sustainable development challenges and practical skills to address and lead efforts in tackling climate change and promoting sustainability across various sectors.

There are also several co-created Chemistry Education Projects that have made a significant impact on teaching and learning and the departmental culture. Examples of this include student research projects on spatial cognition and 3D awareness associated with the use of molecular modelling kits for teaching Chemistry, research projects and publications on student awarding gaps.

We are Chemistry

ESD extends beyond environmental, social, economic and cultural concerns, encompassing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), which are embedded in the foundational philosophy of the Department. The Department of Chemistry is committed to fostering a school climate that cultivates an inclusive environment, recognises the well-known benefits of diversity in innovation and scholarship, as well as increases awareness to a more inclusive and sustainable society, which can be seen from the Athena Swan Silver Award it achieved in 2022.

The department has introduced various programmes aimed at promoting diversity and understanding among students and staff. For example, the We are ChemistryLink opens in a new window project, led by Dr Tom Ritchie, Adam Alcock, and undergraduate students, is a co-created student experience and community-building project, provides events, activities, and opportunities focused on wellbeing, inclusion, and belonging. As part of this work, the Pathways Podcast,Link opens in a new window has been redeveloped, to be led by students, who explore issues that they choose in relation to studying, being at Warwick and careers in Chemistry. Topics range from home and overseas students’ perspective and learning experiences to alumni insights on research and starting PhDs. In addition, the We are Chemistry project has also partnered with Warwick Food Group to establish the Community FridgeLink opens in a new window – an initiative to help reduce food waste and distribute surplus food to people who can make the use of it. The new initiative provides a variety of food items, all free of charge and available on a first-come, first-served basis. It offers benefits for students in the community and also presents an opportunity to reflect on food waste management.

Working with AdvanceHE, the We are Chemistry project was recently awarded an internal fund from Warwick International Higher Education Academy (WIHEA) to create a Warwick Belonging FrameworkLink opens in a new window. With additional support from the Dean of Students’ Office, SEM Faculty, the Widening Participation Team, and Warwick Students’ Union, the project seeks to create a comprehensive framework to guide students and staff to actively build a more welcoming and inclusive campus community. As well as this, the We are Chemistry project, supported by colleagues from other disciplines, is currently producing six podcasts aimed at understanding the new disruptions and uncertainties in teaching, learning, and assessment brought by Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). These dialogues with students and staff will create critical insights into GenAI teaching and learning strategies and practices, potentially paving the way for new innovative approaches to continue ESD in the Department and beyond.

These efforts are complemented by other supportive measures like the establishment of student-led discussion groups, mentorship programs, and collaboration with industry professionals to provide real-world insights and networking opportunities. Through these initiatives, the department aims to not only enhance the academic and professional growth of its members but also to foster a supportive, dynamic, and inclusive community that values and celebrates diversity in all its forms.