These monthly newsletters aim to keep all member networks updated with news describing how to get involved, as well as information of relevant events, services and new initiatives from the RSC Networks team. If you require further information about any of the items in the newsletter, or have any comments or ideas for content please contact the Networks team.

Committee members and representatives are encouraged to disseminate this information, as appropriate, to colleagues and other members. E-alert request forms can be downloaded from the Useful Forms and Documents page. Up to date lists of members can be obtained by emailing the Networks Team.
 

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Dear colleague,

Welcome to the final Networks Newsletter of 2021.

Before we share the December news and updates, we would like to thank you for all that you have contributed to our community this year and wish you and your loved ones a safe, joyful, and restful holiday season.

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: COP26 recordings and reflections all now online
  • Communications from across the RSC
  • Latest updates on our policy work
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
07 December
09 December
13 December
17 December
01 January
11 January
13 January
18 January
28 January
31 January
07 February
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 16 December to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 16 December
Deadline for Research Fund applications
Deadline for all E-alerts going out on 6 January
Deadline for Local Section and Interest Group Top-Up Fund applications
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 20 January to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 20 January
Close of nominations for 2022 RSC Volunteer Recognition Prizes
Deadline for submission of 2021 Annual Report
Deadline for Local Section inserts into March Chemistry World
Deadline for submission of signed 2021 year-end accounts
 
Upcoming Events
 
02 December
06 December
08 December
15 December
16 December
06 January
12 January
20 January
Member e-alerts
Organic Division poster symposium
RSC Inclusion and Diversity Forum 2021, 14:00 - 17:00 UK time
ChemCareers: Careers in computational chemistry, 12:30 UK time
Member e-alerts

Member e-alerts
Green Shoots panel discussion, 16:00 - 17:00 UK time
Member e-alerts
 
Spotlight: COP26 recordings and reflections all now online

Glasgow hosted the UN climate negotiations in November and our climate change policy advisor, Dr John Broderick has shared his reflections.

Our programme of over 20 events has also concluded and you can catch up with them or share with friends, students and colleagues. As well as the series on batteries and energy storage, there are chemistry perspectives on a range of climate-related topics including wildfires, plastics and agriculture.



The members' area also includes the four briefing sessions from experts outside of our community on carbon budgets, the history of UN climate agreements, contributions of chemistry to net zero energy systems, and the transformation of the power system.

Catch up on all COP26 Panels and Webinars online

 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Outreach, Careers, Events, International, and Research & Innovation teams, as well as the Chemists’ Community Fund and RSC Publishing.


2021 Annual reporting deadlines

As we approach the end of 2021, we would like to remind all officers of the upcoming annual reporting deadlines for member network committees.

2021 Annual Report: 28 January 2022
We shared the 2021 form with all Secretaries in February so that it could be completed throughout the year. Read our step-by-step guide or watch our training video for help to complete the form and why we need the information we ask for.

Contact the Networks Team if you have any questions or feedback about the form or process - we will try to incorporate all of your comments as we prepare the 2022 form.

Download and complete the 2021 Annual Report by 28 January 2022


2021 Annual Accounts: 7 February 2022
This year the member network Cashbook will need to be signed digitally via DocuSign; all Treasurers and Chairs will receive information about the new signing process from the Networks Finance Team in the coming days.

Learn more about the year-end accounts in our Guide for Treasurers



Nominate now for 2022 Volunteer Recognition Prizes 

Our Volunteer Recognition Prizes celebrate those who go above and beyond to form communities and support and inspire others.
  • Our Awards for Exceptional Service recognise exceptional volunteering activity in service to the Royal Society of Chemistry.
  • Our Inspirational Member Awards recognise individual members who, through our member networks, have been instrumental in introducing and driving new ideas and approaches to support the breadth of our community.
  • Our Inspirational Committee Awards recognise member networks committees that have initiated novel activities or approaches in order to engage or provide services for their communities.

Send us your nominations by 18 January 2022



Updated call for committees template available

We have updated the text of the e-alert template to open a Call for Committee members to include a note that all committee members are expected to uphold the RSC code of conduct. This change is in response to feedback from one of our governance boards.

Download the new template here



Impact of Covid-19 and winter weather events

We would like to remind you all about support available from the Chemists’ Community Fund, the benevolent fund for RSC members, if anyone is experiencing challenging times due to the impact of Coronavirus, or by recent or future weather events

If a member is experiencing a negative financial impact themselves, or if their partner or dependants are, please suggest they speak to us. Please do share this message with colleagues and friends who may also be RSC Members and need our support.

While we recognise that the immediate practical support we can offer will be limited, we may be able to offer financial assistance. If you would like to discuss or request financial support, the Fund offers a completely confidential service. Please get in touch by phoning +44 (0)1223 853549, or by email.

Contact the Chemists' Community Fund team for information or support



Free 2022 membership for Apprentices

All apprentices can apply for free 2022 Apprentice membership until the end of February 2022 using the discount code APP100. Current members will automatically have their membership renewed for 2022 for free. Please share this offer with your networks and encourage all eligible apprentices and technicians to apply.

We are also thrilled to announce the "save the date" for our National Apprenticeship Conference and Graduation Celebration on 9 February. Registration will open in January and eligible members can apply for technician travel and training grants to cover costs.

Share RSC membership with work based learners for free using APP100



Guinness World Records® title for highest voltage fruit battery

In case you missed it, a new Guinness World Records® title for the highest voltage from a fruit battery has been set by the Royal Society of Chemistry and battery expert Professor Saiful Islam. The title showcases chemistry as a catalyst for change and drives enhanced education on sustainability and the impact of climate change.

Want to get involved? We'll be launching a Global Experiment in 2022 where we’ll be encouraging schoolchildren to investigate battery technology by making their own batteries out of coins and similar materials.

Read the full story online



RSC Inclusion and Diversity Forum 2021

Why belonging and inequalities in race and ethnicity matter
8 December (14:00 - 17:00 UK time)

The RSC Inclusion and Diversity Forum 2021 will take place virtually on 8 December, where we will be presenting findings of our research into race and ethnicity inequalities in the chemical sciences. We will also discuss our recently launched report A sense of belonging in the chemical sciences.

The keynote speakers will be Professor Ann Morning, discussing the importance of data collection and its challenges, and Professor Catherine Ngila, discussing global connectivity.

During this interactive event, a panel of experts from the global research ecosystem will discuss Influencing Change, the winners of the 2021 RSC Inclusion and Diversity Prize will receive their award, and a poster session will feature a number of community-driven projects supported by the RSC Inclusion and Diversity Fund.


Learn more and register by 6 December



2022 Schools' Analyst Competition

2022 Schools' Analyst Competition: finding the perfect formula for fish and chips

The Schools' Analyst Competition enables school students to expand their analytical chemistry knowledge through practical experiments with real world applications.

In 2021 the Competition changed format: the competition coordinator, Graeme Turnbull, created 200 kits containing samples and equipment for up to ten teams of three to participate in a flexible challenge that fit around the school timetable. The 2021 competition saw 249 schools apply for 200 kits, and the format had overwhelmingly positive feedback from students and teachers. As a result, the 2022 competition will be run in the same way and has been expanded to support 300 schools.

Graeme Turnbull, the competition coordinator, has 300 kits available for distribution to schools across the UK and Ireland. Each kit contains samples and equipment for up to ten teams of three to participate in a challenge that fits around the school timetable. If you are based in the UK or Ireland, please spread the word within your networks so that as many schools as possible apply. More details and a link to register may be found on the event website.

For logistical reasons, the kits are not available for schools outside the UK and Ireland, however if you would like to create a similar scheme for schools in your country, the Networks Team can connect you with Graeme to discuss the competition format and share experiences.

Read Graeme’s full report on the 2021 competition


 
Latest updates on our policy work  

With a programme of activities spanning research funding, mobility of scientists, open access, chemicals regulation, teacher supply, curriculum and much more, our goal is to shape the development of policy relevant to the chemical sciences.


A sustainable chemistry curriculum for a sustainable planet

We asked young people and educators about their views on sustainability and climate change within the chemistry curriculum, and we shared the results in a new report. Visit our webpage to find out what they told us – from their views of careers to their opinions on priority topics.

We will be discussing the outcomes of the report in an online panel discussion on 12 January featuring leaders in education and policymaking.


Learn more and register online for our Green Shoots panel discussion


 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter is sent to all member network volunteers monthly as a tailored communication, but the full version can be found here each month. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like to be included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback


Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Aurora and Debbie

 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on Dec 2, 2021 2:00 PM GMT
Dear colleague,

Welcome to the November Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: Catch up on Chemistry and COP26
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
02 November
03 November
09 November
11 November
14 November
23 November
25 November
30 November
13 December
November deadline for Outreach Fund (final round of 2021)
Opening of nominations for 2022 Volunteer Recognition Awards
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 18 November to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 18 November
Deadline for Technician Skills Development Grant applications
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 2 December to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 2 December

Deadline for Local Section inserts into January Chemistry World
Deadline for Research Fund applications
 
Upcoming Events
 
01-12 November
01-12 November

04 November
09 November
11 November
11 November

18 November
18 November
23 November
25 November
02 December
08 December
26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26)
Chemistry Week 2021
Member e-alerts
'Starting Out Right' Workshop from the CCF, 17:00 UK time
Interest Group Forum, 11:15 – 13:00 UK time
Making the Most of Your Engagement workshop 1, 13:00–14:00 UK time
Member e-alerts
Making the Most of Your Engagement workshop 2, 13:00–14:00 UK time
Taking Chemistry to Market’ webinar, 13:00 UK time
Making the Most of Your Engagement workshop 3, 13:00–14:00 UK time
Member e-alerts
Inclusion and Diversity Forum 2021, 14:00–17:00 UK time
 
Spotlight: Catch up on Chemistry and COP26

The RSC have brought together experts working in climate and energy policy to discuss the key role of the chemical sciences in tackling climate change and sustainability, as well as showcasing careers and SMEs in the sector.

You can find the series of event recordings and related videos on our dedicated YouTube playlist, which will be updated regularly. We will be highlighting the content and linking to the key themes throughout COP26.


Check out our Chemistry and COP26 YouTube playlist
 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Outreach, Careers, Events, International, and Research & Innovation teams, as well as the Chemists’ Community Fund and RSC Publishing.


2022 Prizes open for nominations on 3 November

Our 2022 RSC Prizes will open for nominations on Wednesday 3 November. This includes our Volunteer Recognition Prizes, which celebrate those who go above and beyond to form communities and support and inspire others. This is your chance to recognise an individual or committee who has initiated a novel way to engage with or support your community.

Details about all RSC Prizes will be shared with members soon.

Nominate an individual or committee from 3 November


Free Affiliate membership offer extended for 2022

Attendees of online member network events who aren’t already RSC members can apply for free 2022 Affiliate membership. We have prepared slides for you to use to promote the offer during your events, these can be tailored to you and your committee.

Affiliate membership doesn’t require a formal chemical science qualification and the application process doesn't need a transcript or CV, so this is an easy way to encourage those who share our passion for chemistry to join our community and experience the benefits of membership for themselves.

Download the slides from the Useful Forms and Documents page


Inclusion and Diversity Forum 2021

We are pleased to announce that the Royal Society of Chemistry Inclusion and Diversity Forum 2021 will take place virtually on 8 December from 2pm (UK time).

The Forum will continue last year’s focus on race and ethnicity, discussing how we can move forward in tackling the barriers faced by chemists from minoritised ethnic groups. The Forum will also highlight the recently launched report A sense of belonging in the chemical sciences.

In addition, the Forum will also feature:
  • a keynote speaker
  • a panel discussion focusing on influencing change
  • the awarding of the 2021 Inclusion and Diversity Prize
  • poster presentations and selected flash presentations of community-driven projects supported by the Inclusion and Diversity Fund

Throughout the event, attention will be drawn to the importance of sponsorship and allyship, mentorship, availability of role models and building an inclusive global chemistry community.

Learn more and register at rsc.li/idforum2021


Energy price increases

Many households will pay some of the highest energy bills for the past decade this winter, with increasing fuel prices and a rise in the UK energy price cap. If current events are having a financial impact on you as the colder weather starts to set in, and an increase in day-to-day living costs is causing worry, contact the Chemists’ Community Fund team to find out about grants and services that could be available to you.

Any contact with the Chemists’ Community Fund remains strictly confidential.

Get more information about how the Fund can help you


A sense of belonging in the chemical sciences

Every chemist deserves to feel like they belong.

Read our new research, and watch our discussion video, on what a sense of belonging means to the chemical sciences community, based on in-depth discussions with chemists from the UK and around the world at rsc.li/belonging.

Please share this report with your networks.


Read the report at rsc.li/belonging


New A future in chemistry profiles!

We have recently launched a series of profiles on our A future in chemistry website showing how members are using chemistry to build a better, more sustainable world. Some of our new profiles include:
  • A section leader in the wind division of AkzoNobel, who creates coatings that increase the lifespan of wind turbine blades.
  • The head of research and sustainability at Ananas Anam, a company that converts wasted pineapple leaves into Piñatex – a fibre that can be used as a leather substitute.
  • A research fellow with the Faraday Institution who is working on recovering lithium from used car batteries.
  • The marketing development manager with BASF, who helps companies to make more sustainable choices with their packaging.
  • The CEO of ViridiCO2, who is using a catalyst to convert waste carbon dioxide into polymers that can be used in merchandise.

Please contact the Careers Team if your role is tackling sustainability.

Read the job profiles on A Future in Chemistry


Taking Chemistry to Market

Interested in commercialising your research? Get advice from the experts.

Commonwealth Chemistry and Chemistry World are coming together to host ‘Taking Chemistry to Market’ a free-to-attend webinar on 23 November 2021, 13:00 GMT, that is designed to enhance your knowledge of this non-technical area.

Hear from an expert panel about their experiences turning their knowledge, skills and research in the chemical sciences into exciting businesses around the world. You can submit your own questions to the panel, both live and ahead of time. If you are unable to attend, register anyway to receive a recording to watch at your own convenience after the event.


Learn more and register for the webinar online


Energy Advances open for your energy submissions

More than ever, collaborations that cross the scientific community are forming to tackle global energy sustainability concerns. Your ideas could be part of the solution.

Energy Advances is a multidisciplinary, inclusive home to advances across the spectrum of energy science – from central concepts to exciting research at the nexus of subdisciplines.

Editor-in-Chief: Volker Presser, Saarland University, Germany

Gold open access, with APCs waived until mid-2024


Find out more and submit now: rsc.li/energy-advances


RSC Advances open call for submissions

RSC Advances is delighted to announce a new themed collection titled ‘New Insights into Biomolecular systems from Large-Scale Simulations’. This collection is Guest Edited by Professor Stacey Wetmore (University of Lethbridge), Professor Megan O’Mara (Australian National University) and Dr Sarah Rauscher (University of Toronto).

Both Papers and Review articles will be considered for this issue. All submissions will be subject to an initial assessment by Associate Editors and, if suitable for the journal, they will be subject to rigorous peer review to meet the usual high standards of RSC Advances.

Learn more on the RSC Advances blog


 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter is sent to all member network volunteers monthly as a tailored communication, but the full version can be found here each month. Please read the online version and get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Aurora, and Debbie


 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on Nov 1, 2021 2:00 PM GMT
Dear ​colleague,

Welcome to the October Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services, and new initiatives.

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: Chemistry and COP26
  • Communications from across the RSC
  • Latest updates on our policy work
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
01 October
04 October
04 October
11 October
12 October
14 October
26 October
28 October
01 November
Deadline for Local Section and Interest Group Top-Up Fund applications
October deadline for Outreach Fund small grants
Deadline for Chemistry Week grant applications

Deadline for applications to the Research Enablement Grant
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 21 October to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 21 October
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 4 November to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 4 November
November deadline for Outreach Fund small grants
 
Upcoming Events
 
07 October
07 October
08 October
11 October
13 October
21 October
04 November
11 November
11 November
18 November
25 November
Member e-alerts
Sustainability Community Drop-in, 17:30 – 19:00 UK time
Sustainability Community Drop-in, 08:30 – 09:30 UK time
Sustainability Community Drop-in, 12:30 – 13:30 UK time
Helping with Debt Webinar from the CCF, 17:00 UK time
Member e-alerts

Member e-alerts
Interest Group Forum, 11:00 – 12:00 UK time
Making the Most of Your Engagement workshop 1, 13:00–14:00 UK time
Making the Most of Your Engagement workshop 2, 13:00–14:00 UK time
Making the Most of Your Engagement workshop 3, 13:00–14:00 UK time
 
Spotlight: Chemistry and COP26

The UK will host the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow on 31 October–12 November 2021. This will be the most significant meeting since the Paris Agreement was signed, establishing a global objective to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius with efforts to keep as close to 1.5 degrees as possible.

Previous COPs and other summits have helped the formation of United Nations Sustainable Development goals (SDGs). For COP26, we are focusing on chemistry’s unique opportunity to bridge the gap between the SDGs – in particular Goal 12 (responsible consumption and production) and Goal 13 (climate action) – and will be hosting a series of online discussions and workshops, showcasing relevant research, and developing educational and outreach resources and grants.


Find out what we're doing and how you can get involved

 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Outreach, Careers, Events, International, and Research & Innovation teams, as well as the Chemists’ Community Fund and RSC Publishing.


Planning future events
As many of you will have been reminded at our recent Networks drop-in sessions, the current RSC guidance recommends a virtual first approach until the end of December 2021 in order to allow for the potential uncertainty of further lockdowns and need to self-isolate. This approach also helps committee members to plan with more certainty over this period.

However, as of 1 September 2021, as things are opening up in different countries, our member networks can now go ahead and organise physical or hybrid events should there be a reason or advantage to do so.

Events and activities must always comply with local government guidance.

Things to consider:
  • Organisers should prioritise hybrid or online, wherever practical, as this is more inclusive for those who are uncomfortable or unable to attend in person at this time.
  • However, we recognise that some events, like local events or social occasions may only lend them themselves to face-to-face activities.
  • The group will be liable for any cancellation fees incurred if the event is postponed or cancelled, and should therefore ensure that potential risks are minimised and costs are proportionate
  • We’d advise you consider the scenario of organisers, speakers or delegates being asked to self-isolate, and to have a back-up plan for this
  • For any contracts, booking agreements or any document with terms and conditions, you must complete a contract and approval form and submit the contracts to networks@rsc.org so the legal team can review the documents. All contracts must be signed by RSC staff to protect our members from inadvertently becoming personally liable for any damages or loss. Members are not authorised to sign any contracts for RSC activities.

Burlington House is hosting a small number of pre-existing bookings to the end of this year. The team are prepared to consider new bookings for 2022; please contact bhrooms@rsc.org for information.



Interest Group Forum 2021
Thursday 11 November (11:00–12:00 UK time)

We are delighted to announce that we will be holding this year’s Interest Group Forum online on Thursday 11 November.

The Interest Group Forum is an annual meeting of representatives of all of our Interest Groups to receive updates on relevant projects, share experiences, and identify opportunities for collaboration; the benefit of holding our event online means that there is no limit to the number of committee members who can attend, so we are inviting all Interest Group committee members to take part if available.

Discussions will include: Belonging in the chemical sciences, the Division Review, identifying collaborations, and changes to our committee election and ballot processes. As in previous years, we are inviting you to submit your questions and comments before the meeting to us at networks@rsc.org; all comments will be responded to so please submit your comments and questions even if you cannot attend.



The Forum will be recorded and the link shared with all Interest Group committees. You can watch the 2020 Interest Group Forum online.

Register here to join us on 11 November



2021 Christmas Cards
It’s that time of year again when we realise that Christmas is just around the corner and we need to think about cards. Staff have been meeting to discuss the process for sending Christmas cards for 2021, particularly considering the implications of the ongoing pandemic and the uncertainty this winter brings. As such, we will be sending the cards centrally again this year to safeguard our volunteers and recipients. We will be sending further information to all Local Section Secretaries and the Local Section CCF Representatives in the UK and Ireland in the coming weeks.



Join us for one of our online Community Drop-ins
On 7th, 8th and 11th October we are trialling a new event, giving members the space to discuss topics related to chemistry and Sustainability along with our CEO, Helen Pain, President, Tom Welton, and President-elect Gill Reid.

There are three opportunities to join us for this:
  • 5:30 – 7pm Thursday 7th October
  • 8:30 – 9:30am Friday 8th October
  • 12:30 – 1:30pm Monday 11th October

In these events you will hear from invited members working in the field but you will also be able to ask your own questions and discuss your own thoughts on Sustainability.

Learn more and register to join us for one or more of these events online



A sense of belonging in the chemical sciences
Every chemist deserves to feel like they belong.

Read our new research and watch our discussion video on what a sense of belonging means to the chemical sciences community, based on in-depth discussions with chemists from the UK and around the world.


Read the report at rsc.li/belonging and share with your networks



Career support at member network conferences and events
Our career and professional development advisers frequently attend conferences and events to speak or provide one-to-one CV advice. The team have created a new brochure with information about career topics that the team can speak on as part of member network events, including approximate timings and who they are suitable for.

Download the RSC careers support and talks brochure



Our work in Africa picks up pace
Since 2015, we have been working with GSK in Africa to provide training courses in modern analytical methods (GC-MS and LC-MS). By the end of 2021 we will have trained over 400 scientists from across the continent and 10 local trainers.

Throughout 2020 all face-to-face activity was sadly postponed due to the pandemic. However, 2021 has seen the welcome return of the PACN courses, which will run until the end of the year. We will shortly be hosting the next GCMS course in Ghana, closely followed by Ethiopia and Nigeria. It has been fantastic to hear the enthusiastic feedback from delegates and how this knowledge will continue to be shared. We would also like to pass on huge thanks to our volunteers who have continued to offer virtual learning support – in particular Erick Awas who leads activity from our Kenya Hub and was instrumental in enabling us to welcome back Kenyan delegates from May until August.


Join our PACN LinkedIn page to keep up-to date with our work in Africa



Free membership for undergraduates until 31 December
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone differently. At the RSC we’ve been working throughout the disruption to support our members’ changing needs and help them get back on track when there have been unforeseen circumstances.

Due to the challenges imposed on learning by the Covid-19 pandemic, we have decided to waive membership fees for undergraduate students from RSC accredited institutions for this academic year if they join us by 31 December 2021. These savings will apply to both existing and new student members, supporting them as they begin or continue their undergraduate studies.

Academic representatives at accredited institutions have been provided with information to help us to reach and welcome as many eligible students as possible, but any support that our networks can provide in engaging with these new members of our community in the coming year would be greatly appreciated.

Learn more on our website



Public Engagement – Making the Most of Your Engagement
11th, 18th and 25th November 13:00 – 14:00, UK time

Join us for a series of three one-hour workshops run by the award-winning freelance communicator, Jamie Gallagher, to explore how to create the perfect public engagement tailored to your skills, subject and audience. Whether you are new to engagement or looking to get new perspectives on what you can do to improve, this workshop is packed with tips, tricks and strategies for making the most of your engagement.

Learn more and register online



RSC Inclusion and Diversity Forum 2021 – save the date
We are pleased to announce that the Royal Society of Chemistry Inclusion and Diversity Forum 2021 will take place virtually on 8 December.

The Forum will continue last year’s focus on race and ethnicity, including through the launch of our report on race and ethnicity in the chemical sciences and announcements of the resulting RSC commitments and recommendations from the findings of the report as well as from ongoing work with partners. The Forum will also highlight the recently launched report: A sense of belonging in the chemical sciences.

In addition, the Forum will also feature:
  • a keynote speaker
  • a panel discussion focusing on influencing change
  • the awarding of the 2021 Inclusion and Diversity Prize
  • poster presentations and selected flash presentations of community-driven projects supported by the Inclusion and Diversity Fund

Throughout the event, attention will be drawn to the importance of sponsorship and allyship, mentorship, availability of role models and building an inclusive global chemistry community.

Registration will open shortly, please look out for further information.




Latest issue of Analytical Matters now available online
Find out about the latest Analytical Division activities including:
  • CPD Resources, including the latest AMC Technical Briefs
  • Funding opportunities
  • Upcoming events
  • Highlights from recent activities including the Schools’ Analyst Competition and Analytical Research Forum
  • Celebrating the Analytical Division prize winners
  • New Analytical Division Council Members

If you have any items you wish to be included in the next newsletter please email analyticalmatters@rsc.org by 30 November 2021.

Read the latest issue online

 
Latest updates on our policy work

With a programme of activities spanning research funding, mobility of scientists, open access, chemicals regulation, teacher supply, curriculum and much more, our goal is to shape the development of policy relevant to the chemical sciences.


Chemistry, composites and sustainability
Announcing our partnership with the National Composite Centre

More than 95% of composites are made from raw materials and resins that are derived from oil. Shifting to renewable feedstocks, maximising material lifetimes, and eliminating waste are just some of the challenges facing the composites industry in the drive towards net zero emissions. We believe that chemistry plays a crucial role in developing a sustainable future.

Building upon our previous work and existing efforts in the UK, we are joining forces with the National Composite Centre through our Synergy programme to investigate how chemical science research, technology and innovation can help tackle these challenges.

Our partnership will bring together perspectives from resin formulators, composite manufacturers and end-users across markets like building and construction, aerospace, transport and energy. We will also be exploring solutions being developed across the academic community to provide a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities for chemistry.

If you would like to find out more about this project and opportunities to contribute, please get in touch at synergy@rsc.org.

Help us share the message about our partnership on LinkedIn
 
 
Thank you for reading!

The Networks Newsletter goes out on the first of each month as a tailored communication to all of our volunteers; all of the updates are published here each month. If you see any content here that is relevant to you but you didn’t receive, please let us know!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Aurora and Debbie


 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on Oct 1, 2021 2:00 PM BST
Dear colleague,

Welcome to the September Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services, and new initiatives.

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Our strategic approach to sustainability
  • Communications from across the RSC
  • Latest updates on our policy work
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
07 September
09 September
13 September
27 September
28 September
30 September
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 16 September to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 16 September
Application deadline for Inclusion & Diversity Fund
Close of call for abstracts for Organic Division poster symposium
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 7 October to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 7 October
 
Upcoming Events
 
02 September
08-09 September
14 September
16 September
16 September
07 October
Member e-alerts
Joliot-Curie Conference
Mentoring training - remote session for new mentors, 14:00 UK time
Member e-alerts
Careers in batteries, with the Faraday Institution, 12:30 UK time
Member e-alerts
 
Our strategic approach to sustainability

As part of our ongoing Chemistry, Sustainability & Circular Economy (CSCE) campaign, we have been taking actions to put sustainability in the spotlight. Here are some updates for member network committee members:
For information about how members of our communities can get engaged with the CSCE programme or enquiries about our strategic approach to sustainability, contact Georgia Thomas on our Special Projects Team.


Learn more about our activities and how your committee can get involved

 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Outreach, Careers, Events, International, and Research & Innovation teams, as well as the Chemists’ Community Fund and RSC Publishing.


Guidance for setting up and running competitive prizes
We recently shared a first draft of guidance for RSC member committees with the Chairs and Secretaries of our Interest Groups. This document is intended as a guide to support RSC member committees in running a competitive prize scheme, and to share good practice and learnings from the Review of Recognition. The scope of the guidance is most relevant to the types of prizes that Interest Groups may administer, but there will be best practice that should be considered across different forms of recognition and prizes.

Prizes: Guidance for RSC member committees

We would welcome any feedback, comments or questions that you have about this draft. We would particularly welcome any suggestions of good practice, either drawn from your group’s experience of running prizes, or examples you have seen elsewhere which have worked well. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with the RSC Prizes team at awards@rsc.org.

Any feedback that we receive by 15 September 2021 will be considered by Member Communities Board at its meeting in early October. Member Communities Board aim to communicate updated guidance, including the process for considering new prizes, by the end of the year.



Outputs from August drop in sessions
Thank you to all who attended our drop in sessions in August, it was great to see so many faces and to catch up with friends old and new.

Two common themes were setting up and running virtual events, and using social media to promote your activities, so we wanted to share here our online event FAQ document, which includes information about the three platforms available for member networks to use for free, and the recording of the Using Social Media Effectively discussion session from December, which has lots of advice from PMG and FSTG committee members for getting started and engaging with your community on different social media platforms.

Use our online event FAQ to get started running virtual events

Watch the Using Social Media Effectively discussion session


Research Enablement Grant is open for applications
The Research Enablement Grant provides up to £10,000 for new projects and to complete those disrupted by COVID-19, and can include funding for consumables, equipment and a salary contribution for a group member. Up to two applications per department can be made and is available in the UK and Ireland only.

Help us spread the word and share with your networks.

Apply by 2pm on 11 October at rsc.li/researchenablementgrant


Interested in applying for the Inclusion & Diversity Fund?
Do you have a great idea for a project that will help make the chemical sciences community more inclusive and diverse? If so, you could apply for our Inclusion & Diversity Fund, which provides financial support typically up to the value of £5,000.

There are two rounds of applications each year and the current round closes on 13 September 2021. Open to everyone, applicants will be notified of the funding decision by 29 October 2021.


Learn more and apply online


Chemistry Week grants to support Sustainability projects
This year's Chemistry Week has been themed around ‘Sustainability’ and extended over 1-12 November 2021 to align with COP26.

As usual we want to support our members and member groups with any activities and events you may have planned for Chemistry Week, from inspiring the next generation to celebrating the diversity of chemistry within our community.

We have Chemistry Week grants of up to £750 available to support these activities but if you want to plan something larger then this can be done via the Outreach Fund (up to £10,000). If you don’t have anything planned we would like to encourage you to consider whether you or other members you know would be interested in planning an activity.

We have two deadlines to review grants before Chemistry Week which is Monday 6 September and Monday 4 October. More information can be found on our website, or get in touch with the team to ask any questions you may have.

Learn more about Chemistry Week and get involved online


Find a new home for your research
We are delighted to announce that our three newly launched journals are now open for submissions: Digital Discovery, Environmental Science: Advances, and Sensors & Diagnostics are ready to receive your research.

Helping your work reach the largest possible audience, all three journals are Gold Open Access with article processing charges waived until 2024. They’re free to read and free to publish in!

Find out if they are the right fit for you:
Digital Discovery
Environmental Science: Advances
Sensors & Diagnostics



LGBTQ+ STEMinar 2022 abstract submissions and travel grants
The LGBTQ+ STEMinar 2022 abstract submissions are currently open until Monday 20 September. We encourage LGBT+ chemical scientists to participate in this great event to present and learn about research, and network with other LGBT+ people across STEM disciplines.

To support this, in addition to our sponsorship of the event, the RSC is offering enabling grants of up to £150 to chemical scientists attending the STEMinar in person, to pay for travel costs to Glasgow if the 2022 STEMinar is in a hybrid format. For more information please see the STEMinar website or contact diversity@rsc.org. RSC Grants for Carers and Accessibility Grants are also available, which apply to virtual and in-person events.


For more information and to register visit the website


Call for abstracts – Organic Division poster symposium
Dedicated entirely to posters, the competitive symposium provides a fantastic opportunity for final year PhD students working in organic chemistry (in its broadest sense) to showcase their research and network with peers as well as leading academic and industrial chemists.

The online symposia on Monday 6th December will showcase the top 40 submitted abstracts as selected by the Scientific Committee. Prizes are awarded to the best posters, including an Industry Prize awarded to the best research poster that demonstrates potential for industrial application.

Please encourage your students to submit their poster abstracts.


Find further information on our website


2nd Commonwealth Chemistry Posters event (30 Sept – 1 Oct)
This free online event aims to celebrate and elevate the role and practice of the chemical sciences across the Commonwealth – and you can be part of it.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals are the pressing concerns that unite us – the Commonwealth chemistry community – to find solutions. Join us at this virtual poster event to engage with top chemists, find potential collaborations and network with your peers.


Register for free now


 
Latest updates on our policy work

With a programme of activities spanning research funding, mobility of scientists, open access, chemicals regulation, teacher supply, curriculum and much more, our goal is to shape the development of policy relevant to the chemical sciences.


Digital and Data Science Skills
The Education Policy team are doing some work on the use of digital and data science skills, and would like to improve our understanding of how these are applied day-to-day. It would help us to know how much of your job, if any, you spend on each of the following?
  • Data management
  • Statistical handling of data
  • Data visualisation
  • Automation (computational or physical)
  • Simulation
  • “Design of Experiments” (DoE/DoX)
  • Coding/programming


Contact Oliver Burnham to share your answers or learn more about the project


 
Thank you for reading!

The Networks Newsletter goes out on the first of each month as a tailored communication to all of our volunteers. All of the updates are published here each month, if you see any content here that is relevant to you but you didn’t receive, please let us know!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Aurora and Debbie

 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on Sep 1, 2021 2:00 PM BST
Dear colleague,

Welcome to the August Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Networks Team drop-in sessions in August
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
02 August
02 August
10 August
12 August
24 August
26 August
06 September
07 September
09 September
13 September
August deadline for Outreach Fund small and large grants
Close of I&D Fund call to improve accessibility and disabled inclusion
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 19 August to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 19 August
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 2 September to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 2 September

Application deadline for the Outreach Fund small and large grants
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 16 September to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 16 September

Deadline for Inclusion & Diversity Fund applications
 
Upcoming Events
 
05 August
17 August
19 August
19 August
25 August
02 September
08-09 September
16 September
Member e-alerts
Member networks drop in session (1 of 2), 10am UK time
Member networks drop in session (2 of 2), 2pm UK time
Member e-alerts
Retirement in Sight Workshop with the CCF, 5pm UK time
Member e-alerts
Joliot-Curie Conference 2021
Member e-alerts
 
Networks Team drop-in sessions in August

We will be hosting two informal sessions for member network committee members in August. Please come along to say hello, ask questions, and share experiences. We will not be recording the sessions but will use the discussions to create and develop resources.

Please register for one of the sessions using the links below. You can include your questions and comments on the form or to networks@rsc.org.

Register for drop in 1: Tuesday 17 August at 10am UK time

Register for drop in 2: Thursday 19 August at 2pm UK time

 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Outreach, Careers, Events, International, and Research & Innovation teams, as well as the Chemists’ Community Fund and RSC Publishing.


Sustainability speakers
As part of our Chemistry, Sustainability & Circular Economny (CSCE) campaign, the Member Engagement Team has begun to curate a list of individuals who would be suitable and willing to be approached to deliver lectures, demonstrations and/or careers talks on a sustainability related theme to a range of audiences, including schools, the public and academia. We hope that this list will help to support our member networks with CSCE related activity.

Contact the Member Engagement Team to access the speaker list


Interested in applying for the Inclusion & Diversity Fund?
Do you have a great idea for a project that will help make the chemical sciences community more inclusive and diverse? If so, you could apply for our Inclusion & Diversity Fund, which provides financial support typically up to the value of £5,000.

There are two rounds of applications each year and the current round closes on 13 September 2021, applicants will be notified of the funding decision by 29 October 2021. The fund is open to everyone so please spread the word!


Learn more and apply on our website by 13 September


Outreach Fund – update to deadlines
We’re pleased to announce that there have recently been some more deadlines introduced for the RSC Outreach Fund large grants of up to £10,000. The scheme is now running on a rolling monthly application system for both small and large grants. More information about this can be found on our webpage https://rsc.li/outreach-fund.

We are particularly interested in seeing projects that reach and directly enable the support of individuals from under-represented audiences and focus on the positive impact on those individuals (including but not limited to youth groups, support groups for young carers or disabled people, children in SEND schools, schools and communities in deprived areas and/or high proportion of BAME students).

Applications are open to people, organisations and communities with ideas and innovative way to bring chemistry-based science engagement into schools, the public and community groups as well as to develop science communication skills of chemists.

Please do share this with friends, peers, colleagues, your local community groups who you think might be interested in applying.


Questions? Get in touch with the Member Engagement Team


New RSC Career Toolkit!
We have launched a new online Career Toolkit – now available in the membership area.

This toolkit offers a range of interactive tools designed to help you plan your career with confidence. You can assess your personal career preferences, build and review your CV, and even get help preparing for interviews. Whether you’ve already got a career plan in mind, or you’re just working out your first step, your toolkit has the support you need.

Register using your RSC membership details


Announcing Environmental Science: Advances
A new gold open access home for all environmental science work addressing global challenges, ES: Advances is opening for submissions mid-August.

The RSC’s existing environmental science journals all have chemistry at their core. Environmental Science: Advances will span not only chemistry, but research from any discipline that advances our understanding of the environment or addresses environmental concerns. In line with the truly inclusive nature of the journal, authors will be offered the option of double-anonymised peer review.


Learn more and sign up for news and announcements


Celebrating ten years of RSC Advances
In 2011 the Royal Society of Chemistry published the first issue of RSC Advances, so this year marks our 10th anniversary! Since 2011 we’ve published over 62 000 articles across the breadth of the chemical sciences.

We’ve got a lot of activities planned to celebrate our 10th year, starting with an Editorial sharing some of the history of our journal, and how we got to where we are today.


Read the 10th anniversary Editorial


2nd Commonwealth Chemistry Posters event (30 Sept – 1 Oct)
This free online event aims to celebrate and elevate the role and practice of the chemical sciences across the Commonwealth – and you can be part of it.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals are the pressing concerns that unite us – the Commonwealth chemistry community – to find solutions. Join us at this virtual poster event to engage with top chemists, find potential collaborations and network with your peers.


Register online now

 
Thank you for reading!

The Networks Newsletter goes out on the first of each month as a tailored communication to all of our volunteers. All of the updates are published here each month, if you see any content here that is relevant to you but you didn’t receive, please let us know!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Aurora and Debbie

 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on Aug 2, 2021 1:00 PM BST
This month in the Spotlight Rachel Thompson, our Programme Manager for Commonwealth Chemistry and a part of the Commonwealth Chemistry Secretariat, introduces Commonwealth Chemistry and tells us about some of the Federation’s recent achievements.

Contact Rachel if you have any questions about Commonwealth Chemistry activities or projects.


What is Commonwealth Chemistry?
Commonwealth Chemistry is a unique collective of over 40 Commonwealth countries that brings together individuals, communities, chemical societies and other organisations working in the chemical sciences to develop networks, promote collaboration and address shared challenges set out in the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Royal Society of Chemistry is one of 23 member chemical societies and provides funding and the secretariat.

Commonwealth Chemistry holds its first AGM, Congress and launches its website
  • Commonwealth Chemistry recently hosted its first Annual General Meeting (AGM) virtually, which brought together 56 representatives from across the Commonwealth. Highlights of this included the appointment of the first President, Dr Vicki Gardiner, an introduction to the Federation and to all the member societies, a review of current and future plans and a lively Q&A session.
  • Immediately following the AGM chemists from across the Commonwealth came together for the 1st Commonwealth Chemistry Congress. More than 400 chemists from 38 Commonwealth countries joined this three day virtual event. The opening session, a panel discussion on ‘Chemistry and the Commonwealth’ explored the Congress theme of ‘Partnership for the Goals’. Six scientific sessions, with 24 plenary and 80 flash talks, focused on chemistry’s contribution to the UN SDGs showcasing a wealth of scientific excellence from across the Commonwealth. The final session brought leading figures together to share their career experiences with the early career chemists in an interactive panel discussion. All sessions ran twice at different times with different panellists and speakers to ensure inclusivity and that all Commonwealth countries could join live.
  • Commonwealth Chemistry has also recently launched its own website with information about the Federation and for its member societies and the wider Commonwealth chemistry community

What’s next for Commonwealth Chemistry?
  • Coming up in September will be the 2nd online Commonwealth Chemistry Posters event bringing together early career chemists to share their research, discuss their ideas and make new connections and networks
  • Then later in the year a webinar on ‘Taking Chemistry to Market’ will bring together leading experts in this important topic to share their experience in an interactive forum.
  • More details of all future Commonwealth Chemistry activities will be found on the website.
Posted by Aurora Walshe on Jul 1, 2021 2:00 PM BST
Dear colleague,

Welcome to the July Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spotlight: Federation of Commonwealth Chemical Sciences Societies
  • Communications from across the RSC
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
01 July
05 July
06 July
08 July
15 July
25 July
27 July
29 July
31 July
01 August
02 August
02 August
Deadline for Local Section and Interest Group Top-Up Fund applications
July deadline for Outreach Fund small grants
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 15 July to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 15 July
Close of 2021 Pay and Reward Survey
Deadline for Technician Skills Development Grant applications
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 5 August to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 5 August
Deadline for July Research Development Grant applications
Deadline for Local Section inserts into September Chemistry World
August deadline for Outreach Fund small and large grants
Close of special funding call to improve accessibility and disabled inclusion
 
Upcoming Events
 
01 July
07 July
15 July
05 August
19 August
25 August
Member e-alerts
Redundancy Support Workshop from the CCF, 17:00 UK time
Member e-alerts
Member e-alerts

Member e-alerts
Retirement in Sight Workshop from the CCF, 17:00 UK time
 
Spotlight: Commonwealth Chemistry

What is the Federation of Commonwealth Chemical Sciences Societies?

Rachel Thompson, our Programme Manager for Commonwealth Chemistry and a part of the Commonwealth Chemistry Secretariat, introduces Commonwealth Chemistry and tells us about some of the Federation’s recent achievements.

Read the full article on the Networks Newsletter blog, and contact Rachel if you have any questions or suggestions about Commonwealth Chemistry activities or projects.

Read Rachel's update about Commonwealth Chemistry

 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Outreach, Careers, Events, International, and Research & Innovation teams, as well as the Chemists’ Community Fund and RSC Publishing.


Announcement for member network activities outside the UK
To ensure that your activities are covered by RSC insurance, all of our member networks, regardless of location, must now adhere to rules 7.4 and 7.5 in the rules for our member networks:
 
7.4
All contracts and/or documents which will commit the RSC to any liability must be submitted for legal review by the RSC’s Legal Services Team prior to signature. Contracts should be submitted to networks@rsc.org with a completed contract approval form.

Following the legal review process, all contracts must be signed by an appropriate RSC staff member with authority to bind the RSC.
7.5
Any activity with an overall budget greater than £15,000 requires the pre-approval of the Member Communities Board. All member networks need to fill in a pro-forma and submit it to staff (networks@rsc.org) at least three months before the event.

Any contract for goods and/or services valued at greater than £10,000 must be approved ‘in principle’ by the Member Communities Board, subject to the contract approval process and submission of a copy of the (unsigned) contract to the board by the committee.

This includes any bids or verbal commitments including peripatetic conferences.

In particular, please note that all contracts or documents with terms and conditions must be approved in advance by our Legal Team and signed by a member of RSC staff. We have the ability to outsource the checking of such documents to specialists who will understand the legal systems and languages in your countries so don't worry about getting anything translated.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

Download the member network rules, notes, and glossary of terms


Updated anti-bribery training available for volunteers
As a UK organisation, the UK 2010 Bribery Act applies to all RSC volunteers and activities around the world. To learn how this affects you, you can:
Find the training options on the Useful Forms & Documents page


Updated FAQ document for virtual member network events
We have updated the online event FAQ document with information about the three online platforms available to member networks for hosting online events. This includes a table to help you choose the best platform for your event, and information about features such as breakout rooms, automatic reminder emails, and live close captioning.

The guide is not designed to provide technical support for meetings, instead please consult the Zoom, GoToWebinar, or GoToMeeting support pages in the first instance.

Download the updated FAQ from the Useful Forms & Documents page


Online cloud recordings for member network events
Due to the high volume of member network events on Zoom, we are unable to store all cloud recordings of events indefinitely. As such we have deleted all test session recordings and will delete committee meeting recordings after one month (unless we receive a specific request from the committee). If your committee records meetings to facilitate minute taking, it is possible to download the transcript as a separate file.

Find booking forms, guides and more on the Useful Forms & Documents page


Tailored events for your members from RSC Publishing
Are you planning an early career workshop? Or a panel discussion about the directions of your field?

Our colleagues in Publishing can offer tailored talks to your members on topics such as an introduction to open access publishing, how to write and publish your first paper, how to review an article, guidance on publishing careers, and more.


Contact Garima Sharma (Deputy Editor, RSC Advances) to arrange your event


Complete the Pay and Reward Survey by 15 July
Help us build a picture of working in the chemical sciences

We are looking to create a strong dataset that can support the community and help understand the challenges faced in the workplace today, and in the immediate future. The data will also:
  • further our inclusion and diversity work
  • advocate for chemical scientists in the UK and around the world
  • help members plan and develop their careers.
We cannot do this important work without your input. By providing your income data, whether you are working or retired, you are helping your community. Take part via the link we have emailed you, or use our generic link: warpsurveys.com/payandreward2021

Read about what chemists earn on our website


Apply for funding to improve accessibility for disabled chemists
The Royal Society of Chemistry is committed to tackling the barriers that disabled people face within the chemical sciences.

As part of our efforts, through our Inclusion & Diversity Fund, we’re looking to financially support community-driven projects that seek to combat the underrepresentation of disabled chemists. The Fund is currently accepting applications up to the value of £5,000, with larger applications occasionally considered.


Find out more and apply by 2 August


Professional registration and development for apprentices
The competencies for Registered Science Technician and Registered Scientist are being updated to better describe the skills and behaviours demonstrated in the role of a professional scientist, and receiving one of these awards gives recognition of a high standard of work and allows the use of postnominals RSciTech or RSci.

Gaining professional registration status is invaluable for apprentices starting out in a career within the chemical sciences, and since membership of a professional body is required to become professionally registered, we offer 50% off the annual membership rate for people earning less than £28,000 a year for all of our membership categories.

Learn about the benefits, watch our webinars, and apply on our website


Sensors & Diagnostics – opening for submissions mid-August
Led by Editors-in-Chief Sabine Szunerits and Xueji Zhang, Sensors & Diagnostics will be the Royal Society of Chemistry’s gold open access journal for high impact sensors research.

Sensors and screening is a key frontier technique identified in our 2019 Science Horizons report – over 40% of the researchers we surveyed highlighted it as important for the advancement of their own work.

Sensors & Diagnostics will have a broad scope that focuses on high impact, innovative sensing work. We will welcome interdisciplinary research from across the analytical, chemical biology, materials, and nano sectors.


Find out more and sign up for news: rsc.li/sensors


Latest issue of Analytical Matters available online
Find out about the latest Analytical Division activities including:
  • CPD Resources, including the latest AMC Technical Briefs
  • Funding opportunities
  • Analytical Division Council Member profiles

If you have any items you wish to be included in the next issue of Analytical Matters, please email analyticalmatters@rsc.org by 31 August 2021.

Read the latest newsletter here


Rescheduled 2021 dates for GSK/RSC Training courses
We are now underway with the rescheduled Royal Society of Chemistry and GSK Hands-On LC-MS (Liquid Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry) and GC-MS (Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry) training courses for 2021.

Priority will be given to those who were accepted to attend the cancelled 2020 courses, but places do remain on several courses later in the year. Please see the timetable below for forthcoming courses.

 
Course Type
LCMS
GCMS
LCMS
GCMS
GCMS
LCMS (Extra)
Location
Kenya
Ghana
Kenya
Ethiopia
Nigeria
Ghana
2021 Dates
5–9 July 2021
6–10 Sept 2021
9–13 Aug 2021
30 Aug – 3 Sept 2021 [provisional date]
15–20 Nov 2021
Late Oct/Early Nov 2021 [provisional date]

Contact Ellie Peters at Africa@rsc.org with any queries


IUPAC | CCCE 2021 early-bird registration closes on July 12, 2021
The first ever virtual IUPAC General Assembly and World Chemistry Congress, held in conjunction with the Canadian Chemistry Conference and Exhibition (IUPAC | CCCE 2021) is taking place on 13-20 August 2021. This virtual event will feature plenary talks from leading chemists around the world, live Q&A sessions with speakers, hours of on-demand technical talks, live poster sessions, networking and social events, and a featured RSC-sponsored panel discussion ‘Sustainability for Chemistry’ exploring inclusion and diversity.

The RSC is a proud Iridium Sponsor of IUPAC | CCCE 2021 and we hope to see you at this exciting event. Register by the early-bird registration deadline of 12 July 2021 to save. RSC members are also eligible for a registration discount. Contact CCCE@cheminst.ca with your name, institution, and RSC membership number to receive the RSC registration discount code.


Find out more and register online


 
Thank you for reading!

The Networks Newsletter goes out on the first of each month as a tailored communication to all of our volunteers. All of the updates are published here each month, if you see any content here that is relevant to you but you didn’t receive, please let us know!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Aurora and Debbie

 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on Jul 1, 2021 2:00 PM BST
Dear ​colleague,

Welcome to the June Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services, and new initiatives.

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Update to the RSC Safeguarding policies
  • Communications from across the RSC
  • Latest updates on our policy work
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
07 June
07 June
08 June
10 June
14 June
30 June
30 June
30 June
01 July
05 July
June deadline for Outreach Fund small grants
Deadline for completing the CSCE support survey
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 17 June to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 17 June
Close of nominations for 2021 JMC Lectureship
Deadline for June Research Development Grant applications
Deadline for ACTF Disruption Grant applications
Deadline for IUPAC Young Observer applications
Deadline for Local Section and Interest Group Top-Up Fund applications
July deadline for Outreach Fund small grants
 
Upcoming Events
 
03 June
08 June
15 June
15-16 June
17 June
17-18 June

22 June
23-25 June
01 July
Member e-alerts
Announcement of RSC prize winners
Top of the Bench discussion session, 17:00 UK time
Analytical Research Forum
Member e-alerts
MSDE Symposium 2021: Frontiers in Molecular Engineering

International drop in sessions, 09:00 and 16:00 UK time
Faraday Discussion: MOFs for energy and the environment
Member e-alerts
 
Update to the RSC Safeguarding policies

Important updates for organising activities to engage children and/or adults at risk

On 21st April, Audit and Risk Committee approved an update to our safeguarding policies and procedures. Key changes include separating our previous policy into two policies, to reflect the different legislation protecting children and adults at risk. All documents can be found in the safeguarding section of our risk assessment pages and Designated Safeguarding Officers Magda van Leeuwen and Rio Hutchings are always available at safeguarding@rsc.org.


Networks are reminded that it is important that our member networks do not engage in unsupervised activity on a regular basis with unaccompanied children and/or adults at risk. Such activity might be classified by law as ‘regulated activity’ and requires organisers and those delivering the activity to undergo enhanced background checks. Organisations which knowingly allow barred people to work on regulated activities are breaking the law.

For our groups seeking to engage children through schools and youth organisations, ensure that these organisations are aware that our members are not responsible for the supervision of the students involved and that the host organisation must provide sufficient supervising adults who will take responsibility for the children. This must be captured on a red risk assessment.



View the updated safeguarding policy here

 
Communications from across the RSC

Here are updates about events and activities from our Outreach, Careers, Events, International, and Research & Innovation teams, as well as the Chemists’ Community Fund and RSC Publishing.

Updated member network Handbook
We have published an updated version of the member networks Handbook on the Useful Forms & Documents page. This includes updated guidance on the financial and legal responsibilities of a committee, information about common processes, and a new FAQ section and index to make it easier to find the answers you need.

Download the Handbook and let us know what would make it more useful to your committee - we will use your suggestions to improve later versions of the Handbook.

Download the June 2021 version of the Handbook 



International Local Section drop in sessions
Due to the global pandemic, we have not been able to meet up with committee members and we have missed being able to freely discuss committee matters as well as just having a chat and catching up.

We are delighted to announce that we will be holding two drop-in sessions for the committee members of our Local Sections outwith the UK and Ireland on Tuesday 22 June 2021. We hope that by hosting two identical sessions, one at 9am BST and the other at 4pm BST, many of you will be able to drop in to one of the sessions.

These sessions are an opportunity to speak with Tim Reynolds, current representative for the International Local Sections on Member Networks Committee, RSC staff and other volunteers. Recently, we shared some updates on the work of many RSC teams of interest to our networks on our LinkedIn group for International Networks, which may spark some discussion.

The links for both sessions will be sent out this week by email.




A reminder to comply with all rules and guidelines
As Chair of a member network committee you are also a Trustee of the network funds, alongside the RSC Board of Trustees, as outlined in the network Trust Deed. As Chair you take final responsibility for all committee business and network activities and ensure that the committee the annual activity and financial reports are completed and correct.

We ask that you, as Chair, familiarise yourself with our rules and policies so that you can guide your committee when planning your programme of activities. The Networks Team are always available to answer questions or provide support when you need us.

You can find helpful resources on our Useful Forms & Documents page



Capturing and storing risk assessments for your events
One of the key responsibilities of a member network Secretary is to maintain the records for the committee and network; this includes completing or receiving Risk Assessments for all network events – a risk assessment provided by the venue is acceptable - and reporting these in the Health & Safety section of the Annual Report.

It is a strict legal requirement to effectively manage the risks created by such events, and failure to complete a suitable Risk Assessment can render the RSC public liability insurance void. Questions? Read the FAQs on our website or ask the Networks Team.

Read our Risk Assessment policies and procedures at rsc.org/RiskAssessment



A reminder to monitor account activity at least once a month
As a member network Treasurer it is your responsibility to maintain up-to-date financial records for the network. It is apparent from the queries raised during the year-end process (and queries we receive about Bankline login) that some of our Treasurers allow several months to pass between logins.

We appreciate that many of our committees might have a lower number of financial transactions than normal at the moment, but we still ask that you please check the bank statements at least once per month to monitor incoming and outgoing transactions and contact NetworksFinance@rsc.org at the earliest opportunity if unexpected transactions are noted.

Read our guide for member network Treasurers



Updated Top of the Bench handbook available
We have updated the support and guidance for Top of the Bench organisers for the 2021/2022 cycle. The new handbook includes examples of successful virtual heats from the 2020/2021 cycle and guidance for safeguarding during virtual events.

Contact Rio Hutchings with any questions and register for the 15 June discussion session.


Download the handbook here



Chemistry, Sustainability and the Circular Economy Campaign
A reminder that we are currently developing additional support and resources for members to run activities that align with the CSCE campaign, and would value your initial feedback on what would be most useful. Please fill in our very short survey, we will use the results of this survey to help inform what we prioritise but the invitation for feedback and ideas will be open throughout the programme.

Send us your ideas and suggestions by 7 June



Publishing events and resources for your members
Are you planning an early career workshop? Or a panel discussion about the directions of your field?

Our colleagues in Publishing can offer tailored talks to your members on topics such as an introduction to open access publishing, how to write and publish your first paper, how to review an article, guidance on publishing careers, and more.

Contact Garima Sharma (Deputy Editor, RSC Advances) for more details



LGBT+ toolkit of resources for Pride Month
As we celebrate Pride Month, it important to remember that taking concrete steps towards greater LGBT+ inclusivity is a key part of fostering diverse and welcoming scientific workplaces.

We've created a set of resources that tackle the key issues faced by LGBT+ physical scientists and provide the tools for everyone to take part in positive change: employers, colleagues, and LGBT+ individuals.


Download the toolkit here



Apply to participate in the IUPAC Young Observer programme
The Royal Society of Chemistry is inviting its early-career members residing in the UK or Ireland to apply to participate in the IUPAC Young Observer programme. The deadline for applications is 30 June 2021.

Successful applicants, typically early-career researchers, will participate in IUPAC activities as a Young Observer by attending IUPAC | CCCE 2021 on August 13-20: the 51st IUPAC General Assembly and 48th World Chemistry Congress, held virtually in conjunction with the 104th Canadian Chemistry Conference and Exhibition (CCCE).


Find out more and apply by 30 June



Life in the chemical sciences is changing: help us find out how
On 16th June, our pay and reward survey opens and the results will allow us to build a picture of working life in the chemical sciences in 2021. We will explore what you want from current and future employers, pay gaps, differing working experiences as well as the impact of Covid-19 and Brexit on the workforce. Information is power – help us by completing the survey by 15th July. Check your email to receive your personalised link.

Read the results of the 2019 pay and reward survey



Announcing Digital Discovery
A new forum for data-driven approaches to scientific discoveries

Digital Discovery, a gold open access journal, will be the first of its kind, meeting the trend towards greater automation and data-driven scientific techniques head-on. The journal will cover the application of machine learning to solve scientific problems, so will be home to ground-breaking computational research from the areas of chemistry, biology, physics, and materials and biomedical sciences.

We are very excited to have Alán Aspuru-Guzik already confirmed as Digital Discovery’s Editor-in-Chief. This journal will be open access with all article processing charges (APC) waived until mid-2024 to ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to publish and read the top papers in this field.

Find out more and sign up for news: rsc.li/digital-discovery



New contact for PACN queries
We are delighted to share that Ellie Peters has joined the RSC Strategic Partnerships Team and will be working on Pan Africa Chemistry Network projects and activities.

Contact Ellie at Africa@rsc.org



Rescheduled 2021 dates for GSK/RSC Training courses
We are pleased to announce that the postponed RSC and GSK hands-on LCMS and GCMS training courses have now been rescheduled for 2021. Priority will be given to those who were accepted to attend the cancelled 2020 courses, but places still remain on a large number of the courses later in the year.

We will be updating the table below and sending out further updates as applications open for the courses over the coming months.
 
Course Type
GCMS
LCMS
GCMS
LCMS
GCMS
GCMS
LCMS (Extra)
Location
Kenya
Kenya
Ghana
Kenya
Ethiopia
Nigeria
Ghana
2021 Dates
21st - 25th June 2021
5th - 9th July 2021
6th - 10th Sept 2021
9th - 13th Aug 2021
Early Sept 2021 [TBC]
15th - 21st Nov 2021
Late Oct/Early Nov 2021 [TBC]


Email africa@rsc.org with any queries

 
Latest updates on our policy work

With a programme of activities spanning research funding, mobility of scientists, open access, chemicals regulation, teacher supply, curriculum and much more, our goal is to shape the development of policy relevant to the chemical sciences.

New Research Collaboration Advice Centre
The Government announced on 25th May the establishment of a new dedicated team within government to offer researchers advice on how to protect their work from hostile activity, ensuring international collaboration is done safely and securely. The new Research Collaboration Advice Team (RCAT), for which recruitment is now underway, will promote government advice on security-related topics, such as export controls, cyber security and protection of intellectual property. It is designed to support the research system to ensure researchers’ work is protected, and that the UK research sector remains open and secure.

Read the announcement



Roles at Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is currently undergoing a large recruitment to their Chemicals Pesticides and Hazardous Waste teams. This includes a number of science roles as well as policy roles.

It would be hugely appreciated if you can disseminate these through your networks to tap into the scientific talent and expertise needed to drive forward science based policy both domestically and internationally.

Applicants are advised to use the STAR method to respond to competency questions and to keep in mind that applications are likely to be read by non-experts - consider how to communicate scientific work with this in mind and bring out wider transferable skills!

Search all open roles on Chemistry World Jobs

 
Thank you for reading!

The Networks Newsletter goes out on the first of each month as a tailored communication to all of our volunteers. All of the updates are published here each month, if you see any content here that is relevant to you but you didn’t receive, please let us know!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Aurora and Debbie

 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on Jun 1, 2021 2:00 PM BST
Dear ​colleague,

Welcome to the May Networks Newsletter, our way to keep our member network committee members and representatives up to date with RSC activities, services and new initiatives.

This month’s Newsletter contains:
  • Upcoming Deadlines
  • Upcoming Events
  • Spring 2021 Regional Steering Groups
  • Communications from across the RSC
  • Latest updates on our policy work
 
Upcoming Deadlines
 
04 May
11 May
13 May
17 May
24 May
25 May
26 May
31 May
01 June
May deadline for Outreach Fund small grants
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 20 May to additional networks
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 20 May
Deadline for
Research Fund applications
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 3 June to additional networks
Deadline for applications to the
Research Enablement Grant
Deadline for E-alerts going out on 3 June
Deadline for May
Research Development Grant applications
Registration deadline for
Analytical Research Forum 2021
 
Upcoming Events
 
06 May
13 May

13 May
18–20 May
20 May
03 June
17 June
Member e-alerts
RSC
Desktop Seminar Lectureships with Lab on a Chip, 12 noon PDT
Nature and mental wellbeing, 15:30 UK time 

First Commonwealth Chemistry Congress
Member e-alerts
Member e-alerts
Member e-alerts
 
Spring 2021 Regional Steering Groups

We recently held the spring 2021 meetings for all nine UK and Ireland Regional Steering Groups. As part of these meetings we share updates from our Parliamentary Affairs, Policy & Evidence, and Chemists' Community Fund Teams relevant to volunteers, as well as a report about the network activity in 2020.These reports have been collated in a summary document for you to read and share. We'll be hosting two online drop in sessions for our international volunteers during the summer to discuss relevant news and updates.

Contact the Networks Team with any questions, we'll include answers to common queries as updates in the Newsletter.

Download and read the summary reports


 
Communications from across the RSC
Here are updates about events and activities from our Outreach, Careers, Events, International, and Research & Innovation teams, as well as the Chemists’ Community Fund and RSC Publishing.


A message for our volunteers in India
We have seen the news about the ongoing covid crisis in your country and we would like to let you know that we are all thinking of you, your families and the other RSC members in India during these difficult times.

All of our members in India will receive a message with a reminder of the support available from the Chemists' Community Fund. If you have any questions you can contact the team using CCF@rsc.org.



Have you signed up to the RSC International Networks Forum?
We have an online LinkedIn forum for our international volunteers. We'll post about the upcoming drop in sessions, as well as other relevant updates and opportunities, and you can ask questions and share experiences.

Join the RSC International Networks Forum and stay up to date



Virtual-first event policy until the end of 2021
As mentioned during the RSG meetings, the current guidance for member networks is that physical meetings should not take place until 1 September 2021, and that a virtual-first approach is encouraged for all events until the end of 2021.



Launch of a new Wellbeing and Listening Service
The Chemists’ Community Fund will be launching a Wellbeing and Listening Service in May to provide a listening service for those chemists who simply need someone to talk to, be that for those struggling with bereavement, job insecurity or isolation and loneliness.

The service will enhance the holistic work that Fund Caseworkers provide to members and onward referrals for other Fund support will of course then be made where relevant.

We will be marking the launch as part of Mental Health Awareness Week (10–16 May) and we encourage you to share the announcement with your networks.


Learn more about the Fund's recent activity in the RSG update summary



Are you interested in running meetings on Carbon Capture?
The Applied Materials Chemistry Group is looking for Interest Groups with an active interest in running meetings on carbon capture, storage, and utilisation.

Would you or your committee be interested in working with them?

Let us know if you'd like to collaborate with AMCG



Did you know?
You can record your committee meeting on GoToMeeting and Zoom to make it easier to capture the minutes and actions for your meeting. The recordings can be deleted after the minutes have been agreed. Both platforms offer transcription for recordings.

Find booking forms and resources for online meetings on the UF&D page



New PLFs Report – a global sustainability challenge in industry
Polymers in liquid formulations, or PLFs, is a $125 billion global market and important class of speciality chemicals that go into for adhesives and sealants, agrochemicals, household cleaning products, inks, lubricants, paints and coatings, personal care and cosmetics and water treatment chemicals. Despite their importance, and contrastingly to plastics, there has been very little coordinated effort to highlight the challenges around sustainability.

Our latest report, which for the first time, provides a landscape view of PLFs and the role of chemistry in developing sustainable solutions to this important sustainability challenge in industry will be published tomorrow at noon (UK time).

Read and share the report at rsc.li/plfs on 5 May 



Nature and mental wellbeing
13 May 2021, 3.30pm (UK time)

As part of our Building a better chemistry culture series, we’re hosting a webinar focusing on this year's #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek theme: nature.

Spending time with nature can have a profoundly positive impact on our mental wellbeing, but not everyone has equal access to nature and green spaces. It’s important that we recognise and address inequalities so that nature in its many forms can be made accessible to all.

Join our webinar as our expert speakers discuss the connections between nature and mental wellbeing, as well as the importance of this to building a more inclusive chemical sciences.


Register now



Robert Parker to join the Commonwealth Chemistry Executive Board
During 2018 and 2019, the Royal Society of Chemistry led a series of round table discussions with senior representatives from the Commonwealth to explore the benefits a Commonwealth chemistry organisation could bring to the community. Those discussions culminated in the formation of Commonwealth Chemistry, the Federation of Commonwealth Chemical Sciences Societies.

The Federation is being led by President-Elect Dr Vicki Gardiner, and we are pleased that Dr Robert Parker, in his role as Royal Society of Chemistry Ambassador to Europe and the Commonwealth, has been appointed a member of the Commonwealth Chemistry Executive Board.




First Commonwealth Chemistry Congress
18–20 May 2021, Online and free to attend

Commonwealth Chemistry’s first major activity will be its inaugural Congress, bringing together senior researchers and early career chemists from across the Commonwealth nations to discuss research addressing the SDGs.

The 1st Commonwealth Chemistry Congress offers a unique opportunity during the difficult times of the pandemic to engage with a Commonwealth network from across the breadth of the chemical sciences. In addition to panel discussions on career pathways and the importance of the Commonwealth’s role in achieving the SDGs there will be networking opportunities to share and discuss research.

Registration is free for early career chemists. This is a fantastic opportunity to join this special Congress. Places are limited so register now to attend.


Register now to attend



Apply for the Research Enablement Grant by 25 May
Our Research Enablement Grant provides up to £10,000 for new projects and to continue those disrupted by COVID-19, and can include funding for consumables, equipment and a salary contribution for a group member. Up to two applications per department can be made, and it is open for applications until 25 May.

For more information and to apply please visit rsc.li/researchenablementgrant



ACTF Disruption Grant – deadline 30 June 2021
The Analytical Chemistry Trust Fund (ACTF) Trustees recognise the disruption that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on analytical science students. They have launched a disruption grant of £500 aimed at PhD students who are in the last 6 months of their PhD and need additional monetary support to complete their studies.

Note: this fund is to support personal costs to help enable students to complete their studies for example rent, or other caring or living costs, and cannot be used for laboratory research costs. Students must be resident in the UK or Republic of Ireland and registered at a University in the UK or Republic of Ireland.

Please share with relevant colleagues.


Fill in the online application form


 
Latest updates on our policy work

With a programme of activities spanning research funding, mobility of scientists, open access, chemicals regulation, teacher supply, curriculum and much more, our goal is to shape the development of policy relevant to the chemical sciences.


Join our campaign for ‘Science Champions’ at Holyrood and the Senedd
We’ve recently launched our Royal Society of Chemistry manifesto campaigns ahead of the Scottish Parliament and Senedd Cymru elections, and we need your help.

Against the backdrop of the pandemic the importance of science has rarely been more visible. That is why we are calling on candidates for the elections to support our manifestos and sign up to be ‘science champions’ at Holyrood and the Senedd.

You can support the campaign by clicking the relevant link below, filling in some details, and information about the campaign will go directly to your local candidates.


You can read our election briefings here:
Support our Scottish Science Champion Campaign

Support our Welsh Science Champion Campaign


 
Thank you for reading!

This Newsletter is sent as a tailored email each month to all member network volunteers - please get in touch with suggestions for what you would like included or feedback about what we've sent you!

Send us your feedback

Kind regards,

The Networks Team
Fiona, Aurora and Debbie



 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on May 4, 2021 12:00 PM BST
This month in the Spotlight Camilla Alexander-White, Senior Policy Advisor for Environment & Regulation, explains some of the recent work we're doing on UK chemicals policy. You can contact Cam or any member of the Policy & Evidence Team at policy@rsc.org with any comments or questions.


It is important for citizens to know and trust how chemicals are managed in everyday life. Now that the UK has left the European Union as of 1 January 2021, UK government is responsible for all matters relating to chemicals management in industrial processes, the products we consume and the chemicals present in the environment.

UK REACH is now operating in Great Britain (Northern Ireland continues to follow EU REACH as per the Northern Ireland protocol). The Health & Safety Executive are acting as the regulatory ‘Agency’ for chemicals and are recruiting 60 new staff members now, and also for expert scientists to join the REACH Independent Science Expert Pool (RISEP). At the RSC, we have continuously called for independent scientific advice to be a core part of UK REACH, and we are pleased that the HSE have established a strong mechanism for science advice.

If you would like to join RISEP, the deadline for applications is 4 April 2021https://careers.hse.gov.uk/job/reach-independent-scientific-expert-pool-risep/

On 23 March, Defra announced the first programme for UK REACH restrictions, with lead in ammunition, chemicals in tattoo inks/ permanent make up, and PFAS chemicals included. We convened a science-policy round table on 30 March to begin looking at the topic of PFAS in more detail and will share these outcomes in the coming weeks.

Chemicals policy is also important at the international level, and we have been working with the United Nations Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) programme ‘Beyond 2020’. We are campaigning for the establishment of an intergovernmental panel for chemicals and waste; you can read our policy position on the RSC website.
 
Posted by Aurora Walshe on Apr 1, 2021 11:00 AM BST
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