The Legacy of Lomonosov Moscow State University's Chemistry Department
270 Years of Excellence
In the heart of Moscow stands an institution where chemical innovation has flourished for nearly 270 years—the Department of Chemistry at Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU). From its founding by the visionary scientist Mikhail Lomonosov in 1755 to its current status as a global research powerhouse, this department has consistently shaped the landscape of chemical science 1 2 . Its story is not merely one of historical significance but a continuing narrative of groundbreaking discoveries that bridge fundamental research and practical applications.
The establishment of Moscow University in 1755 marked a pivotal moment in Russian science. Mikhail Lomonosov, an intellectual titan of the 18th century with interests spanning history, rhetoric, art, poetry, mechanics, chemistry, and mineralogy, was instrumental in its creation 2 . His vision broke from European tradition by eliminating class barriers, making academic achievement—not social standing—the primary criterion for success 2 .
The prominent Russian poet Alexander Pushkin described Lomonosov as "a person of formidable willpower and keen scientific mind, whose lifelong passion was learning" 2 .
Moscow University founded by Mikhail Lomonosov
Laboratory of Chemistry established, precursor to the Department of Chemistry
Commoners formed majority of students and faculty, demonstrating democratic spirit
Today, the Department of Chemistry at MSU stands as one of the world's most comprehensive chemical research centers. Its scale is staggering, with cutting-edge facilities and world-renowned researchers.
| Research Division | Key Specializations | Example Laboratories |
|---|---|---|
| Organic Chemistry | Biologically active compounds, Organoelement compounds | Laboratory of Biologically Active Organic Compounds, Laboratory of Organoelement Compounds |
| Physical Chemistry | Catalysis, Chemical thermodynamics, Molecular spectroscopy | Laboratory of Chemical Thermodynamics, Laboratory of Molecular Spectroscopy |
| Analytical Chemistry | Chromatography, Spectroscopy, Electrochemical methods | Laboratory of Chromatography, Laboratory of Electrochemical Methods of Analysis |
| Polymer Science | Polymerization processes, Medical polymers, Biopolymers | Laboratory of Polymerization Processes, Laboratory of Macromolecules for Medicine and Biotechnology |
Catalyst development represents one of the department's signature research strengths 1 . This experiment demonstrates the synthesis and testing of a silica-supported metal oxide catalyst designed for degrading organic pollutants in wastewater—a pressing environmental challenge. Such catalytic systems are vital for advanced oxidation processes that convert toxic contaminants into harmless compounds like carbon dioxide and water.
The catalyst demonstrates exceptional degradation efficiency, achieving over 95% removal of the target pollutant within 90 minutes. Kinetic analysis reveals the reaction follows pseudo-first-order behavior, with the calculated rate constant providing a quantitative measure of catalytic efficiency.
Control experiments confirm the necessity of all three system components—the catalyst, hydrogen peroxide, and the pollutant—for effective degradation to occur. The catalyst exhibits excellent stability with minimal performance loss after five reuse cycles.
| Time (minutes) | Pollutant Concentration (ppm) | Degradation Percentage (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 100.0 | 0.0 |
| 15 | 68.5 | 31.5 |
| 30 | 42.3 | 57.7 |
| 45 | 24.1 | 75.9 |
| 60 | 12.8 | 87.2 |
| 75 | 6.2 | 93.8 |
| 90 | 4.7 | 95.3 |
Laboratory work at MSU's Chemistry Department relies on precisely prepared reagent solutions. These substances form the foundation of experimental chemistry, enabling everything from synthetic transformations to analytical measurements. Proper preparation requires meticulous technique, accurate calculations, and strict safety protocols 4 .
| Reagent Solution | Preparation Method | Primary Application | Safety Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.1 M Sodium Hydroxide | Dissolve 2 g of sodium hydroxide in sufficient water to produce 500 ml 3 | Acid-base titrations, pH adjustment | Corrosive; wear gloves and eye protection |
| 0.05 M Iodine Solution | Dissolve about 7 g of iodine in a solution of 18 g of potassium iodide in 50 ml of water, add three drops of HCl, dilute to 500 ml 3 | Redox titrations, starch tests | Toxic and corrosive; handle in fume hood |
| 2 M Sulphuric Acid | Dilute 5.7 ml of concentrated sulphuric acid to 100 ml with water 3 | Catalyst, dehydrating agent, pH adjustment | Highly corrosive; always add acid to water slowly |
| 20 ppm Iron Standard | Dissolve 172.6 mg of ferric ammonium sulfate in 100 ml water, dilute 1 volume to 10 volumes with water 3 | Instrument calibration, reference standards | Stable storage prevents concentration drift |
| Buffer Solutions (various pH) | Precise mixtures of weak acids/bases and their salts | Maintaining constant pH in reactions | Check pH calibration regularly |
The Department of Chemistry extends its influence far beyond laboratory walls through comprehensive educational programs and international collaborations. Its faculty members train the next generation of chemists while maintaining extensive global partnerships with institutions including the University of Vienna, University of Lisbon, and Metropolitan Autonomous University in Mexico 5 .
A flagship initiative showcasing the department's global engagement is the International Mendeleev Chemistry Olympiad (IMChO), organized by MSU's Chemistry Department in partnership with the Andrey Melnichenko Foundation 6 . This prestigious competition brings together the world's most talented young chemists, with the 59th edition held in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, in 2025 7 .
"The strategic goal of the Mendeleev Olympiad is to unite young chemists from all over the world, to show the boundlessness of chemistry in all senses" - Professor Stepan Kalmykov, Scientific Director of the MSU Chemistry Department 6 .
| Country | Gold Medals | Silver Medals | Bronze Medals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Russia | 10 | Information not fully specified in search results | Information not fully specified in search results |
| China | 3 | Information not fully specified in search results | Information not fully specified in search results |
| Uzbekistan | 3 | Information not fully specified in search results | Information not fully specified in search results |
| Vietnam | 2 | Information not fully specified in search results | Information not fully specified in search results |
| Hungary | 1 | Information not fully specified in search results | Information not fully specified in search results |
| Other Countries | 0 | 38 total silver medals | 58 total bronze medals |
The Department of Chemistry at Lomonosov Moscow State University represents far more than a historical landmark—it is a dynamic, evolving institution that continues to push the boundaries of chemical science while honoring its foundational principles. From Lomonosov's original vision of accessible education to today's cutting-edge research in catalysis, materials science, and environmental chemistry, the department maintains its position at the forefront of scientific discovery.
Its unique combination of comprehensive research infrastructure, world-class faculty, and deep commitment to education ensures that the department will continue to shape the future of chemistry for generations to come. As it approaches its 270th anniversary, the department stands as a testament to the enduring power of scientific curiosity and the limitless potential of chemistry to address humanity's greatest challenges.