Heidelberg University Faculty of Chemistry and Earth Sciences


The Faculty of Chemistry and Earth Sciences is one of twelve faculties at the University of Heidelberg. It comprises the Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Physical Chemistry, Institute of Geography, Institute of Geology and Paleontology, Institute of Mineralogy, and the Institute of Environmental Geochemistry.
Chemistry was established as a separate discipline at the University of Heidelberg in 1817 with Leopold Gmelin being appointed ordinary professor of chemistry and medicine. 1895 is considered to be the date of foundation of Geography at the University of Heidelberg as it was from this year on that lectures in physical and mathematical geography were held on a regular basis. In 1899 the first professorship in geography was established, filled by Alfred Hettner.

Institute of Inorganic Chemistry

Institute of Organic Chemistry

Institute of Physical Chemistry

The main research areas of the Institute of Physical Chemistry are:
The first professorship in geography was established in 1899, filled by Alfred Hettner. The earth scientist Bernhard Eitel is currently the rector of the University of Heidelberg.

Institute of Geology and Paleontology

was established in 1823 with lectures by Heinrich Georg Bronn.

Institute of Mineralogy

The first chair for mineralogy was established in 1817 with Karl Cesar von Leonhard.

Institute of Environmental Geochemistry

Prof. German Müller established the Institute of Environmental Geochemistry in 1993. The main research areas of the institute are: