News Chemistry Department Building Links 12.10.2026

Collyer’s Chemistry department were honoured to be invited to the University of Sussex recently to mark the 30th anniversary of Sir Harry Kroto receiving the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. His discovery of a new form of carbon, buckminsterfullerene, often known as the “buckyball”, opened exciting possibilities across a wide range of fields, including astrochemistry, nanotechnology, energy production and medicine.

Fourteen students, accompanied by their teacher and Head of Chemistry, Diana Janus, enjoyed a tour of the university campus followed by lunch. The programme also included a seminar exploring the work and legacy of Sir Harry Kroto, a practical activity in which each student made a model buckyball, and TED-style talks which included presentations on the development of utility-scale quantum computers and the creation of the world’s smallest magnet.

Diana Janus said: “It was an enjoyable and inspiring day for everyone involved. The Chemistry Department at Collyer’s has developed strong links with partner schools and universities over many years, helping students make informed decisions about their next steps.”

Collyer’s Deputy Principal Steve Martell said: “Huge thanks to Diana Janus, the Chemistry team, and all at the University of Sussex for making this wonderful educational opportunity possible for our young chemists.”