Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) is one of the peak professional bodies for the chemical sciences in Australia. Established in 1917 and granted a Royal Charter in 1932, RACI promotes excellence in the chemical sciences through education, advocacy, professional development, and community engagement.[1]
RACI was founded on 14 August 1917 as the Australian Chemical Institute, during a period when the importance of chemistry in national development was increasingly recognised.[2] The organisation was spearheaded by Professor David Masson and emerged amidst the backdrop of World War I, reflecting the growing need for scientific expertise in industry and public policy.[2][3]
In 1932, the Institute was incorporated under a Royal Charter, and in 1953, the name was officially changed to the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.[2][4] This royal recognition affirmed RACI’s role in promoting excellence in chemical sciences and its contribution to Australia’s scientific progress.
Throughout its history, RACI has championed chemical education, including the International Chemistry Quiz, which now reaches students in over 20 countries. It has also played a key role in accrediting university chemistry programs, ensuring high standards in tertiary education.[2]
Membership
RACI offers a range of membership categories tailored to different stages of a chemist’s career:[5]
Student Membership.
Early Career Membership.
Member (MRACI).
Chartered Member (MRACI CChem).
Fellow (FRACI or FRACI CChem).
Honorary (FRACI or FRACI CChem).
Some direct membership benefits include access to a range of conferences, webinars, workshops, discounted event rates, eligibility for awards, networking and volunteering opportunities, and the use of professional post-nominals.[5]
RACI members also gain access to MyRACI, Australia’s largest online community for chemical sciences. This platform enables members to connect, collaborate, and stay informed about research, events, careers, and educational opportunities.[6]
Divisions
RACI Green & Sustainable Chemistry Conference in 2023
RACI comprises 15 specialist divisions focused on key areas of chemical science:[7]
Analytical and Environmental Chemistry
Carbon Chemistry
Chemical Education
Electrochemistry
Health, Safety & Environment
Industrial Chemistry
Inorganic Chemistry
Materials Chemistry
Medicinal Chemistry & Chemical Biology
Organic Chemistry
Physical Chemistry
Polymer Chemistry
Radiochemistry
Supramolecular Chemistry
Green & Sustainable Chemistry
Branches
RACI Early Career Chemists Group SA
RACI maintains branches in every Australian state and territory:[8]
Australian Capital Territory
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia
Branches host educational activities, networking events, and outreach programs tailored to local communities.[8]
Activities and Services
RACI delivers a broad range of services and initiatives across four key areas:[9]
Education, Careers and Outreach
ICQ Global Chemistry Educators Program partnered with ASDAN China
RACI supports chemistry education through competitions, resources, and university accreditation. Outreach initiatives promote scientific literacy and inspire future chemists.[9]
Events and Awards
RACI Heads of Chemistry meeting
RACI organises conferences and symposia, and recognises excellence through awards aimed at celebrating outstanding achievements.[9]
Publications
RACI co-owns a number of international scientific journals, publishes newsletters, and curated reading lists to support professional development and highlight research achievements.[9]
Advocacy
RACI advocates for the role of chemistry in addressing societal challenges and regularly participates in various national and international forums.[9]
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