The Institute of Chemistry (IC) is a National Center of Excellence (NCOE) in the Basic Sciences in UPLB by virtue of Executive Order 889 and was recognized as a Center of Excellence by CHED in 2006. The Institute’s history spans more than a century with its roots tracing back to 1910 as the Department of Agricultural Chemistry under the College of Agriculture, UPLB. In 1973, the Department of Agricultural Chemistry became the Department of Chemistry under the then College of Science and Humanities, now the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS).

Since the establishment of the Institute of Chemistry in 1983, IC has grown and expanded both its academic and research programs in basic and applied chemistry in support of the country’s agricultural, industrial, and rural development thrusts. IC is committed to producing highly trained professionals equipped with the fundamental knowledge and sound understanding of chemical principles, as well as a strong research orientation. Presently, the Institute is composed of five (5) divisions namely:

• Analytical and Environmental Chemistry Division (AECD)
• Biochemistry and Agricultural Chemistry Division (BACD)
• General Chemistry and Chemical Education Division (GCCED)
• Organic Chemistry and Natural Products Division (OCNPD)
• Physical, Inorganic, and Industrial Chemistry Division (PIICD)

The Institute has consistently produced top graduates and professionals, who are among the country’s top-notch scientists. Today, IC continues to strengthen and expand its research capability in basic and applied chemistry for the betterment of the Philippines and other developing countries.