A key feature of studying second (and third) year chemistry course is that many of the staff involved in the courses are outstanding researchers in their own right and are leaders of sizeable research operations. This is a major benefit of studying undergraduate chemistry at the ANU. The laboratory components of the second year chemistry courses are more than ably supported by the laboratory technical staff Stephen Lee and Bozena Belzowski, and a team of highly talented PhD students that undertake demonstrating roles.

Students undertaking a Major in chemistry have to successfully complete Chemistry 1 & Chemistry 2 (or the equivalent) and 12 units of second year courses, typically CSR 1 & CSR 2 (as these are the pre-requisites for most of the third year chemistry offerings). CSR 1 & CSR 2 are unique courses in the Australian university context in that they successfully combine components of organic and inorganic chemistry to produce a pair of courses ideally suited for students with a particular interest in synthetic chemistry (a veritable research strength of the RSC). (Note: It is strongly recommended that Applied Spectroscopy also be undertaken).

The Arthur Hambly prize is awarded to the top student in second year chemistry each year.

Second Year Convener: Dr Russell Barrow
[Note this is not a dedicated position like that of the First Year Chemistry Convener]