For Current Students
The study of chemistry at Lewis & Clark is divided into analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry. Students become familiar with each area, ensuring a thorough grasp of the field.
We emphasize research as a teaching tool, so ideas explored in the classroom come to life when tested in the lab. Students are involved in research at all levels, initially assisting professors and ultimately performing studies of their own.
We also offer interdisciplinary programs in Pre-Med, Biochemistry, and Environmental Studies. Since 2005, four chemistry majors have received the prestigious Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship. In addition, chemistry graduates have gone on to earn National Science Foundation (NSF), Howard Hughes Medical Institute, and Hertz Foundation fellowships, which are some of the nation’s highest science/engineering awards.
With accomplished faculty and award winning students, more than 20,000 square feet of classroom, laboratory, and study space, and recent funding from the NIH, the NSF, Research Corporation, the Merck Institute for Science Education, the HHMI, the Keck Foundation, and the Fairchild Foundation, our department is well-equipped for the study of chemistry in the 21st century.
News
Mapping the Urobiome for Better Bladder Health
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is supporting Jean-Philippe Gourdine’s research into how “good” bacteria survive in the harsh environment of the urinary tract—work that will be important for improving bladder health and the development of new treatments for urinary diseases.
Finding Post-Grad Success
Graduating from Lewis & Clark College means you will earn a bachelor of arts degree that is grounded in critical thinking, written and verbal communication skills, teamwork, and problem solving—all of the essential qualifications you need to succeed in any career.
2026 Project Descriptions for the Rogers Program
Summer science research opportunities