Chemistry is the study and manipulation of molecules or matter, its structure, properties, and composition, and the changes that matter undergoes. Chemists routinely create new matter that finds applications in computing, nanotechnology, biotechnology, drug discovery, biology and medicine. Chemists are environmentally friendly, working to find new sources of energy and to minimize waste. For decades chemists have been finding applications for renewable matter which is important because oil is not an infinite resource. They are contributing to a new area - Chemical Biology - which is the study of the chemistry of life and medicine, It is envisaged that this area will lead to the next generation of medicines. Chemistry provides an important part of the solution to needs in society and can provide opportunities and the knowledge for economic development. There is a need for the broadly educated chemist who can work on the core topics as well as those who can work and communicate with biologists, physicists, clinicians and engineers. The science of chemistry is of prime importance to nanotechnology, biotechnology, drug discovery, the environment, energy, biology and medicine.
The work of chemists is all about you. The toothpaste you use in the morning is the work of chemists. Chemists had much to do with the clothing you wear. They may have made the fiber or created the dye that gives it color. From the test tubes of chemists have come modern medicines and many kinds of vitamins. It is the chemist who deserves thanks for many of the materials you find in your home, at school, and in cars, buses, planes, and trains.