About Us

Chair's Message

leahy

Dr. James W. Leahy
Professor and Interim Chair
Department of Chemistry

Dear Prospective Student,

Chemistry is often referred to as the “Central Science” because, contrary to what you may hear elsewhere, everything is comprised of chemicals. Research into such seemingly disparate areas as the discovery of new drugs, optimizing current sources of energy, unlocking new ways to harness and store alternative energy, evaluating the effects of pollution on the environment, developing ways to eliminate pollution or developing new materials all involve chemical research. Here at the University of South Florida, we have active research programs that touch each of these areas. Whether you are pursuing an undergraduate (B.A. or B.S.) or a graduate (M.A., M.S. or Ph.D.) degree, you will find that USF provides a stimulating environment to study not only within the traditional areas of chemistry (analytical, inorganic, organic and biochemistry), but also in interdisciplinary areas such as computational chemistry, chemical education and material science. Our urban setting in Tampa, Florida allows our faculty and students to enjoy all that the area has to offer, including great weather, nearby beaches, outdoor recreation and a vibrant community in what is routinely voted one of the best large cities to live in. I invite you to look around our department website and come join us!

Jim Leahy
Professor & Chair