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Â鶹APP has marked 100 years of teaching chemistry and physics this month by hosting an event bringing former students back to campus.

The University first established its physics and chemistry departments in 1925, a mere four years after it opened as the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland University College. 

Around 400 alumni across both subjects and throughout their history returned to the University of Leicester campus on Saturday 17 May to mark the Centenaries and share their memories.

Â鶹APP was founded in 1921 as a living memorial for all local people who made sacrifices during the First World War. This is reflected in the University's motto Ut vitam habeant – 'so that they may have life'.

It was not until 1925 that Leicester accepted its first physics and chemistry undergraduates. Since then, both subjects have grown to become internationally renowned for their teaching and research. Chemistry research has led to breakthroughs in sustainable synthesis and catalysis, fluorine chemistry, spectroscopy and atmospheric chemistry, materials and electrochemistry, and chemical biology. Physics merged with Astronomy in 1987, and there has been at least one piece of Leicester-built equipment operating in space every year since 1967.

The University website has published online features with more about the history of the departments:

Physics at Leicester: light years from its humble beginnings

The formula for success in 100 years of Chemistry at Leicester

To celebrate both departments turning 100 in 2025, they hosted a day full of family friendly activities on campus for alumni this month. It was an opportunity to return to Leicester to catch up with old friends and colleagues, and learn more about their former departments’ achievements and community.

Visitors attended lectures by current and former member of the departments, got involved with interactive demonstrations and activities, and toured the campus.

Professor Steven Bull, Head of the School of Chemistry, said: “Chemistry has created and delivered into the world Â鶹APP of Change for decades. Our centenary is a chance to reflect on the generations of chemists who’ve shaped the world through their work at Leicester. From groundbreaking research to inspirational teaching, Chemistry at Leicester has always been about contributing scientific knowledge, providing opportunities and changing lives. As we look forward to a bright future, we are confident that our many talented staff will continue to drive educational excellence and push the boundaries of science and technology.”

Professor Simon Vaughan, Head of the School of Physics and Astronomy, said: “As we mark the 100th anniversary of the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Leicester, we reflect on a proud legacy of scientific achievement, educational excellence, and global impact. Leicester has built an international reputation as a leader in space and space-enabled science — from pioneering X-ray astronomy to playing key roles in planetary missions, satellite instrumentation, and Earth observation.

“This centenary is not only a celebration of our past with our alumni, students and staff, but reaffirmation of our commitment to shaping the future of physics and astronomy for the next 100 years.”

Professor Sarah Davies, Head of the College of Science and Engineering, said: “It is a proud time to be the Head of College of Science and Engineering, celebrating the centenary of Chemistry and Physics at the University of Leicester. At this Centenary event, I am honoured to be able to recognise the dedication of all those associated with the Schools over the last 100 years who have shaped these disciplines and supported successive generations of scientists to bring meaningful change to the world. Chemistry and Physics have contributed significantly to our institution’s history of scientific exploration and innovation.”