SynTech

University of Greenwich Synthesis Technologies Summer School

“Innovate, Integrate, Inspire”

First Edition: 6–8 July 2026 Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

About The Summer School

Welcome to the University of Greenwich Synthesis Technologies Summer School, a premier three‑day programme that brings together world‑class scientists and industry leaders to explore the technologies reshaping modern synthesis. From 6–8 July 2026, participants will engage with pioneering experts to gain insight into electrochemistry, flow chemistry, photochemistry, mechanistic studies, process chemistry, artificial intelligence in chemistry and emerging technologies. The summer school will be held at the University’s Old Royal Naval College campus, an inspiring UNESCO World Heritage site on the Thames, creating a perfect setting for discovery, networking and collaboration.

Our Confirmed Speakers (more to be announced)

Prof. Donna Blackmond

Mechanistic Studies, Scripps Research Institute: known for her work on reaction kinetics and mechanistic analysis, she develops methods that reveal how reactions proceed at the molecular level, allowing chemists to design more efficient and selective processes.

Prof. Phil Baran  

Electrosynthesis, Scripps Research Institute: a pioneer in electrochemical methods for complex molecule synthesis. His research has enabled scalable and sustainable electrochemical transformations that expand the toolbox available to synthetic chemists.

Dr Katherine Wheelhouse

Process Chemistry, GSK: specialises in scaling up complex chemical processes from bench to production. She will discuss strategies and technologies for process chemistry

Prof. Daniele Leonori 

Photochemistry, RWTH Aachen University: renowned for contributions to photoredox catalysis and radical chemistry, driving the development of sustainable light‑driven synthetic methods.

Prof. Tim Noël

Flow Chemistry, University of Amsterdam: a leader in continuous‑flow processes and microreactor technology. His work demonstrates how flow chemistry can accelerate reactions, improve safety and enable precise control over reaction conditions.

Mx Nessa Carson

Artificial Intelligence in Chemistry, AstraZeneca: applies machine learning and AI to streamline drug discovery and synthesis design. Her presentation will explore how data‑driven methods accelerate reaction optimisation and molecule discovery.

Why attend?

Access cutting‑edge science: gain insight into enabling technologies—such as flow chemistry, electrosynthesis, photochemistry, AI‑driven reaction design and more—that are transforming synthesis and promoting sustainable practices.

Learn from world‑renowned speakers: interact with leading figures from academia and industry who will share strategies, case studies and emerging trends.

Network with a high‑calibre audience: meet scientists, students and professionals from industry and academia; build collaborations and explore career opportunities.

Experience an inspiring venue: the Old Royal Naval College offers a historic yet modern environment with state‑of‑the‑art lecture theatres and scenic grounds, providing a memorable learning atmosphere.

Shape future programmes: your participation and early registration help us tailor the schedule and secure additional speakers, ensuring the summer school meets your interests.

Programme highlights

Plenary lectures: delivered by each of the speakers listed above, covering the latest advances in enabling technologies and their practical applications.

Interactive sessions: Q&A sessions with speakers, encouraging participants to explore topics in depth.

Networking activities: dedicated breaks and a welcome reception to foster collaboration between attendees from academia and industry.

Posters and Flash presentations session: an opportunity for PhD students and early‑career researchers to present their work and receive feedback.

A full programme with timings, topics and session formats will be published closer to the event date. Early registration helps us tailor the schedule to participants’ interests.

Registration and fees

Registration will open once sponsorship and programme details are finalised. Expression of interest is encouraged now; please complete the registration form (below) to receive early notification when booking opens. Early registrants will be offered priority access and reduced fees. By registering your interest, you also help us to secure funding and keep fees affordable for students and academics.

Expression of Interest Form

Sponsorship opportunities

We invite organisations to partner with us in delivering this high‑profile event. Sponsorship will:

The financial cost of organising the summer school.

Keep registration fees low for PhD students and academic participants.

Provide brand visibility to an audience of 100+ scientists and professionals from across the global pharmaceutical and chemical sectors.

Sponsorship packages can be tailored to your organisation’s objectives. For enquiries, please contact Prof Kevin Lam & Dr Xacobe Cambeiro (Summer School Organisers) by using the contact form below.

Venue and logistics

Venue: Old Royal Naval College, University of Greenwich, London (SE10 9LS). This campus is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its historic architecture and riverside setting.

Travel: The site is easily reached by public transport: Cutty Sark DLR station is a 5‑minute walk; Greenwich train station is nearby for National Rail services; river boat services also stop at Greenwich Pier. London City Airport is approximately 20 minutes away by public transport.

Accommodation: A range of hotels, guesthouses and university halls are available in Greenwich and central London. We recommend booking early due to demand.

Accessibility: All lecture rooms and facilities comply with accessibility standards. Please contact us if you have specific requirements.

Contact

For general enquiries, sponsorship discussions or special requirements, please contact:

Prof Kevin Lam – University of Greenwich, School of Science - K.Lam@gre.ac.uk

Dr Xacobe Cambeiro – University of Greenwich, School of Science - X.Cambeiro@gre.ac.uk

Alternatively, fill in our contact form on this website and we’ll respond promptly.