14th SCI-RSC National Retrosynthesis Competition

Correction: The Dapycalycine B structure originally published to the event page contained an error, the stereochemistry at C15 has been corrected (5th Oct 2026) and highlighted in the updated flyer. The structure in the cited isolation paper (Chin. Chem. Lett. 2026, 37, 111314) is correct. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. 

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Synopsis

For many years, institutions in the UK and Ireland have produced high calibre synthetic organic chemists, able to retrosynthetically disconnect complex molecules and natural products then solve the challenging problem associated with the forward synthesis. To celebrate this and following on from the success of the previous thirteen competitions, we are pleased to announce the 14th SCI-RSC Retrosynthesis Competition.

The event will showcase the calibre of chemists from both industry and academia and provide a platform for them to demonstrate their retrosynthetic and forward synthetic prowess. Entries will be shortlisted to a final 10 teams who will then be invited to present before their peers and the judges. Following the presentations, an exciting line up of leading academic and industrial synthetic chemists will judge the event, with the top three teams winning specifically designed trophies, in addition to the acclaim and praise from peers, colleagues and the wider Chemistry community for winning the event.

This event is open to teams based in the UK and Ireland.

How to enter

• Download the first-round molecular flyer 
• Download the template for competition entry 
• Download the competition terms and competition 

Entries for first round must be submitted no later than 17:00 (GMT) on Friday 4 December 2026.

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Programme

Further details will be announced in due course.

SCI’s Fine Chemicals Group and Young Chemists’ Panel are committed to promoting diversity and equality in the chemical sciences. We aim to identify high quality speakers for all our conferences with full inclusivity where attendees from all backgrounds are welcome. We are open to offering flexible presentation options. 

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Exhibition and sponsorship

If you are interested in exhibiting at this event or in sponsorship opportunities, please contact conferences@soci.org for further information and costs.

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Accessibility Grants

SCI accessibility grants are available to support SCI members with disabilities, long term health conditions, those who require a carer, and members who are nursing parents to attend SCI events. Download an application form to apply for a grant.

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Venue and Contact

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Booking Process/Deadlines

Booking terms and conditions

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CPD Info

All delegates attending this meeting are able to claim CPD points.

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