From Stellenbosch to new international collaborations – Grace Tabi's Commonwealth Chemistry Congress experience

Dr Grace Tabi

When Dr Grace Tabi (early career chemist and The University of Sheffield) travelled to Stellenbosch, South Africa, as part of the RSC-UK delegation to the 3^rd Commonwealth Chemistry Congress, she expected to learn about the latest developments in her field. What she discovered was much more than that – new international connections, fresh perspectives on her research and opportunities for future collaboration that continue to influence her work today.

Describing the congress as "inspiring and highly rewarding", Grace found herself immersed in an environment designed to bring together chemists from across the Commonwealth to share knowledge, exchange ideas and tackle common challenges. The collaborative atmosphere and opportunities for discussion made a lasting impression.

"Interacting with leading researchers across diverse chemistry disciplines made the sessions both stimulating and thought-provoking," she reflected.

For Grace, one of the most valuable aspects of attending the Congress was the opportunity to gain exposure to new research areas and emerging scientific approaches. Sessions exploring sustainable chemistry, renewable energy technologies and AI-driven modelling provided insights that she has since considered within her own research. In particular, discussions around solar-to-hydrogen conversion, photovoltaics and energy storage materials offered fresh perspectives on global advances in energy research.

Presenting her own work, through a flash presentation and a poster, at the Congress was equally rewarding. Through conversations with researchers from around the Commonwealth, Grace received valuable feedback that has already informed ongoing projects. Beyond the science, she gained mentorship insights, developed her professional network and discovered new perspectives on career opportunities in chemistry.

The connections she made extended well beyond the event itself. Discussions with researchers working in green hydrogen and advanced solar materials opened up opportunities for future collaborations involving colleagues in the UK, South Africa and Ghana. These relationships have the potential to strengthen international research initiatives and demonstrate the long-term value of bringing researchers together through the Commonwealth Chemistry Congress.

Reflecting on her experience, Grace highlighted the importance of international and cross-disciplinary collaboration in addressing global challenges, particularly in areas such as sustainable energy. She also emphasised the need to invest in early career researchers, recognising the crucial role they play in driving future scientific innovation.

"The most valuable aspect was the blend of high-quality presentations and meaningful networking opportunities, which fostered professional development and created actionable opportunities for future collaborations in energy research."

Could you be one of the next UK delegates?

Grace's experience highlights exactly why the Royal Society of Chemistry is supporting early career researchers to participate in the 4th Commonwealth Chemistry Congress taking place in Agra, India from 12 – 16^th September 2027. The programme is designed specifically with a focus on early career researchers where you can connect, collaborate and share ideas and gain new experiences.

The Royal Society of Chemistry is now inviting applications from early career chemists across the UK for a fully funded place within the RSC-UK delegation.

This unique opportunity has been designed to help emerging researchers:

• Build international networks across the Commonwealth.
• Present their work as flash and poster presentations and receive feedback from a global audience.
• Develop new research collaborations and partnerships.
• Learn from leading scientists working across a wide range of chemistry disciplines.
• Share ideas and experiences with fellow early career researchers.
• Explore how chemistry can contribute to solving global challenges.

The Commonwealth Chemistry Congress is more than a scientific conference. It is an opportunity to become part of an international community of chemists, committed to collaboration, innovation and the exchange of knowledge across borders.

As Grace's experience demonstrates, you could return with new connections made, lessons learned, new ideas, and a renewed perspective on your research and career, long after the Congress has ended.

Apply for a fully funded place

If you are an early career chemist based in the UK undertaking research in the chemical sciences and want to expand your professional network, gain international experience and contribute to important conversations about the future of chemistry, we encourage you to apply.

Applications for the RSC-UK delegation are now open. For more information, please visit our website.

Our Grants for Carers and Accessibility Grants are also available to support those with caring responsibilities or who need additional assistance to participate in a professional development activity.