European Analytical Chemistry on the Web

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"Analytical chemistry is a scientific discipline which develops and applies methods, instruments and strategies to obtain information on the composition and nature of matter in space and time."
WPAC/FECS - Definition of analytical chemistry as agreed at Euroanalysis VIII, 1993, Edinburgh, UK

“Analytical chemistry serves humanity – the science of measurements for medicine, industry, environment and food”
ACS/Division of Analytical Chemistry

Analytical chemistry in Europe

More than every second chemist working outside the educational system in the world is an analytical chemist. This factual circumstance is neglected in most European countries. If Europe wants to be competitive with respect to its industrial activities based on chemistry then a comprehensive and advanced education of skilled analytical chemists becomes crucial.
A high quality education in analytical sciences assumes a platform of high quality research. Unfortunately, the governmental financing of research in analytical sciences in Europe does not reflect and nor does not meet the industrial needs. The grants that are given to analytical chemists are marginal and heavily disproportional in comparison with other chemistry branches. Consequently, there are too few high quality research platforms in analytical chemistry in Europe.
The recruitment of qualified analytical chemistry researchers at the universities is hampered by the fact that most industries can offer a skilled PhD in analytical chemistry a much more attractive environment than that of a university.
The recent developments in analytical sciences have provided a broad spectrum of tools and techniques. It is often difficult to find an expert and an appropriate education in a certain analytical discipline in some European countries. The position of analytical chemistry in Europe can be improved through formation of research networks, arrangement of advanced courses and conferences, etc. This is a challenge for us within DAC and EuCheMS during the years to come.
This web page is an attempt to provide a timesaving tool for analytical chemists in Europe that are determined to work for a common goal namely to give analytical chemistry the position that it deserves and also a position that is of benefit for the European society.