Medicinal Chemistry & Chemical Biology Division

The MCCB plays an important role in advancing medicinal chemistry and chemical biology in Australia. The Division had as its patron the eminent Australian scientist Adrien Albert who was world renowned for his work in toxicology and chemistry, and our most prestigious lectureship – The Adrien Albert Lecture – is named in his honour.

Our Purpose

Our Medicinal Chemistry & Chemical Biology Division was created to:

• provide a networking platform for those with an interest in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology from all sectors

• help to disseminate the latest research and applications of medicinal chemistry and chemical biology

• help provide for the professional development of medicinal chemists

• encourage students to embark on a career in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology.

Regular Events 

• The Division holds regular national conferences every two years where the latest academic research and commercial sector innovations are presented.

• We also enjoy reciprocal links with the Molecular Graphics and Modelling Society and have held two highly successful joint conferences.

Divisional Awards

We present a range of awards to recognise the contribution of our members. Highlights include:

• The Adrien Albert Award

  • The Adrien Albert Award is the premier award of the MCCB Division and is given for sustained, outstanding research in the field of medicinal chemistry or chemical biology

  • Learn more
• The Peter Andrews Award for Innovation in Medicinal Chemistry/Chemical Biology

  • This award recognises innovation in the development of small molecules as potential therapeutic agents or chemical probes by RACI members who are within 15 years of being awarded their PhD.

  • Learn more
• The Graham Johnston Best Thesis Award
  • The Graham Johnston Best Thesis Award is to recognise and encourage outstanding young research scientists at the beginning of their careers. The award is given for the best PhD thesis conferred in the previous two years in the field of Medicinal Chemistry and/or Chemical Biology.
  • Learn more

Expressions of Interest - midnight Tuesday 16th May 2023

RACI Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology Division State/Territory Representatives. 

EOIs are invited for the role of RACI Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology State/Territory Representative. These positions are open to full RACI members that are affiliated with the Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology Division. There are up to three positions available per state/territory (Qld, NSW, Vic, SA, WA, Tas, ACT, NT) at least one of which will be a postgraduate student and one an early or mid-career member. EOIs from RACI members from both industry and academia are welcome. Female candidates are encouraged to apply.

The RACI Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology Division State/Territory Representatives role will encompass the following activities: 
1.    Contributing as part of the RACI MCCB Division leadership team including attending meetings (approx. 2-3 per year, online), assisting with RACI MCCB Division activity planning (e.g. conferences, Division awards, workshops).
2.    Contribute to organising local/national RACI MCCB division activities (approx. 1 activity per year).
3.    Proactively communicating opportunities within your networks for prizes, awards, RACI conferences and other relevant professional opportunities. 

RACI MCCB members interested in this opportunity are expected to actively participate in Division activities including attending the Divisions national conference. 

The term of the State/Territory representative positions will be for a 1–3 year period. If you are interested in this leadership opportunity, please submit an EOI by email to [email protected] by the Tuesday 16th May 2023. Your EOI should address the following criteria. 
EOI (1 page maximum)
1.    Why are you interested in this leadership position in the RACI MCCB Division?
2.    How have you already demonstrated your commitment to RACI as a RACI member including (over the past two years)?
3.    Include a brief bio (name/title, current role and what Australian state/territory this is in, if you identify as a postgraduate student or early/mid-career member (include supporting details).

Become Involved

If you would like more information on our MCCB Division, or how to become involved, please contact us below

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