The Department of Chemistry was established in 1924 which is one of the vibrant departments of Karnatak Science College. At the beginning, under the leadership of eminent chemists, Prof.Alim Chandani and Prof. K.S.Nargund, the department grew to the greater height. Since Then it has trodden the path of more than nine decades. The department is enriched with 10 scholarly permanent Teachers with doctoral degree and 16 teaching assistants. The department is enriched with well equipped laboratories and an independent library with more than 5100 books with ICT facility and serves for about 80 students for Post graduate in Chemistry, 600 students for undergraduate course, 1000 students in PUC I and II and 25 students under Ph.D. program. Few under graduate students, of our department have undergone training in National and International reputed institutions like JNCASR- Bangalore,IITs NCL.
Many Faculty members are recognized as Research Guides from Karnatak University, Dharwad. The department possesses basic research amenities including several sophisticated instruments required for research activities. Department of Chemistry is rated as one of the best for its teaching and research activities. The department has received various research project funds by VGST, UGC, DST, and SERB.
In addition to projects, some of the faculty members have received awards for best publications from VGST (Govt. of Karnataka) and young scientist awards from Indian chemical society and other reputed organizations. As on date, Faculty members have published more than 300 research papers in highly reputed journals of good impact factor up to 9 and 18 students have completed Ph.D. The PG in general Chemistry is also functioning since 2009. In addition, the department also runs Biotechnology division since 2002. The students get a chance to involve in extracurricular activities such as exhibitions of interesting chemistry experiments, seminars, quiz programmes, debates and essay writing etc ad also interact with eminent scientists from various institutes through Madam Curie study circle. Teachers and students also conduct scientific awareness programs, in the nearby villages and also for high school and primary school children.