Celebrating 50 years of chemical engineering

This year, we celebrate 50 years of chemical engineering at Bath. We look back at the successes of our staff and students and celebrate our achievements.

A word from us

'As we come together to celebrate the 50th Anniversary, let us acknowledge and reflect on the enduring legacy of research and education excellence that has shaped us over the past fifty years.

'This is a moment to pay tribute not only to the cumulative accomplishments of our Department but also to the unique contributions of each member of our vibrant community - academics, researchers, support staff, students, and alumni - who have all contributed to our journey.

'There is much to be thankful for and to celebrate, as we look forward to the next 50 years.' — Professor John Chew, Head of Department of Chemical Engineering

Read our Heads of Depts' posts and more

image of 9 west building from outside in snow

Student success

Our students are the heart of our department's community. They inspire us daily as we watch them succeed from their first day to when they graduate and beyond.

Sam Lewis spent his professional placement at Patheon, working as an Engineering Intern in pharmaceuticals
Luke Wilson carried out his final-year research project investigating how to reduce the size and cost of an enzymatic biofuel cell
Marcus Johns used his PhD to develop novel, sustainable materials for tissue engineering that could help mend organ

image of smiling female student in graduation gown and hat

Research for a better world

From exploring new and renewable fuels, and improving healthcare and chemical products, to providing clean water solutions, and forging a more sustainable future - for fifty years our research has made lives better.

Marianne Ellis is scaling up the production of cultured meat to create sustainable, ethical food and reduce the impact of intensive farming
Tim Mays is leading the UK hub for research challenges in hydrogen and alternative liquid fuels (UK-HyRES) to help the UK reach net zero targets.
Chris Chuck developed a sustainable yeast-based alternative to palm oil, which is responsible for severe deforestation, water and air pollution
Semali Perera has invented a new form of high-performance air purifier that promises zero harmful waste

Graduate stories

Our students' time with us is just the start of their journey. There's nothing more we take pride in than seeing our graduates go out into the world and flourish.

Kah Peng Lee did his PhD at Bath in membrane technology. He's now developing Anion Exchange Membranes for the green H2 sector.
Jack Jones graduated in 2011. He went on to develop better sanitation in refugee camps
Parimala Shivaprasad used Bath's entrepreneurship and business development services during her PhD to start a company tackling floral waste in India
David Glass graduated from Bath in 1985. He's been a busy man since then!

female looking away from camera in front of a microscope

Making a difference

As a Department, we recognise we have a responsibility to contribute to climate initiatives and be more sustainable in the way we work. Our Climate Action Advocate, Dr Sandhya Moise is working on ways we can deliver our strategy towards net zero.

Read Sandhya's blog post on our Climate Advocate scheme

Dedicated to diversity

Our community has grown a lot since our inception in 1974. In 2023, we received the silver Athena Swan award for our dedication to making an equal, diverse, and inclusive environment for our staff and students.

Athena Swan silver award

50th anniversary highlights on Instagram

Contact us

Get in touch if you want to find out more about our 50th anniversary celebrations.

Chemical Engineering department