Making an impact on academe and society, the department’s research thrusts are directed to Environmental Management and Protection, Health-Related Studies, and Chemistry Education.

The diverse expertise base in the department covers Air Quality Analysis, Biochemistry and Neurological Science, Chemistry Education, Environmental and Marine Geochemistry, Flow Injection Analysis, Natural Products, Surface Electrochemistry, and Synthetic Inorganic and Organometallics Chemistry.

Completed projects include: Air and water quality monitoring of key areas in Cebu including the Protected Watershed Areas, Mactan Channel, and Butuanon River.

Mutagenicity and bioactivity of natural products are also investigated, as well as the bioremediation potential of various terrestrial and marine plants. One recent study showed that water hyacin roots effectively absorb lead from aqueous solutions in vitro and in vivo. Ongoing projects include the investigation of the effects of additives on the detection and retention time of prohibited drugs. In Chemistry Education, the department distinguishes itself in the development of microscale laboratory experiments and multimedia materials for teaching chemistry and training elementary and high school teachers.