The C&EN Collections page is a thoughtfully organized resource hub that brings together years of high-quality reporting, analysis, and storytelling across the chemical sciences. Developed by Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN), a publication of the American Chemical Society, this section of their website offers a unique way to explore chemistry through thematic lenses — from groundbreaking research to societal impacts.
Purpose and Audience
Whether you’re a chemist, student, educator, industry professional, or simply curious about science, C&EN Collections provide accessible entry points to complex topics. The collections are designed to help readers navigate a wealth of content based on subject areas, allowing deeper understanding of critical scientific issues, emerging technologies, and career paths in chemistry.
Main Categories Featured
The collections are grouped into categories that reflect both recurring themes and timely issues. Some of the prominent sections include:
- C&EN Talks With: A series of interviews featuring thought leaders in chemistry, including Nobel laureates, researchers, educators, and policy influencers. These interviews provide personal insight into scientific discovery, professional challenges, and the future of the discipline.
- Concentrates: Short, digestible news items on developments in chemical research, industry trends, regulations, and technological innovation. Ideal for staying informed with minimal time investment.
- What’s That Stuff? A reader-favorite column that explores the chemistry behind everyday items — from chocolate to sunscreen to printer ink — making science relatable and relevant to daily life.
- Green Chemistry: A historical and ongoing look at the shift toward sustainable chemical practices, green synthesis methods, and innovations that reduce environmental impact. This section includes archived articles going back to the early 2000s.
- Climate Change: A dedicated area examining the intersection of chemistry and climate, including carbon capture technologies, emissions control, climate policy, and environmental monitoring.
- Safety Letters: A rare and valuable resource for real-world laboratory and industrial safety incidents, shared by professionals across sectors. These lessons highlight best practices and encourage a safety-first culture in science.
- Career Tools: Guidance for chemists at all stages of their careers. Topics include resume writing, networking, job search strategy, career transitions, and soft skills development.
- Critter Chemistry: A fun and educational series that explains chemical principles through fascinating examples from the animal world — such as how shrimp break glass or why certain insects glow.
Special Collections and Topical Themes
In addition to recurring categories, C&EN creates special collections based on current events, scientific breakthroughs, or societal movements. For example:
- Oil Spill Coverage: In-depth articles on the chemistry and environmental science behind disasters such as the Deepwater Horizon spill.
- Diversity in Chemistry: Features and commentaries on women in science, racial equity, and inclusion in academia and industry.
- Science Policy: Updates on U.S. and global legislation affecting research funding, regulation, and STEM education.
- ACS Meeting Highlights: Summaries of major announcements, research trends, and keynote talks from American Chemical Society national meetings.
Why the Collections Matter
In an age of information overload, the C&EN Collections serve as an essential filter. They save time by bringing together relevant content in one place. They also enable a deeper dive into topics that matter — whether you’re preparing for a class, exploring a new research area, planning a career shift, or simply satisfying your curiosity.
By focusing on both timeless fundamentals and current issues, the collections act as a living archive of chemistry’s role in shaping the world — scientifically, environmentally, economically, and socially.
Final Thoughts
The C&EN Collections are more than a digital library — they are a dynamic, evolving platform that reflects the heartbeat of the global chemical community. By exploring these themed archives, readers not only stay informed but also gain a broader appreciation of how chemistry connects with every aspect of modern life.