Chemistry is on the rise
in Tennessee.
In the last six years, the chemical industry has invested more than $400 million and created 2,000+ jobs in the state.
As one of the largest producers of degrees in chemistry in Tennessee, the University of Tennessee Department of Chemistry plays a critical role in this continued growth.
$82,400
Average salary of chemical industry workers in Tennessee
#1
University for polymer science in the U.S.
57%
of 2025 PhD graduates are working in the chemical industry
49%
of UT students took at least one chemistry class in 2021
Chemistry hours taught at UT are consistently rising:
The New Charles & Julie Wharton Chemistry Building
To meet the increasing demand for high-quality chemistry education and training, the new Charles & Julie Wharton Chemistry Building at the University of Tennessee will have:
- A large conference room and learning center
- Student collaboration and study room
- More than 25 research labs
- Glass blowing show
- Dedicated workstations for student researchers
By building this new facility, the UT Department of Chemistry will provide the resources to continue educating the next generation of leaders in the chemistry industry and beyond.
Naming Opportunities
Exterior
| Opportunity | Donation Amount |
|---|---|
| Outdoor Plaza | $2,500,000 |
| Liquid Nitrogen Tank (visible from UT-owned road) | $1,000,000 |
Interior
| Opportunity | Donation Amount |
|---|---|
| Lobby | $2,500,000 |
| Large Auditorium | $2,000,000 |
| First Floor | $1,000,000 |
| Second Floor | $1,000,000 |
| Remaining Floors (6) | $750,000 |
| Large Conference Room / Learning Center | $500,000 |
| Student Collaboration / Study Room | $500,000 |
| Core Research Facilities / Nuclear Magnetic Resonance | $500,000 |
| Department Head Suite (Reception and Office) | $250,000 |
| Medium Conference Room / Learning Center (2) | $250,000 |
| Teaching Lab (3) | $250,000 |
| Research Lab – Large (26) | $250,000 |
| Glass Blowing Shop | $250,000 |
| Rooftop Deck | $100,000 |
| Small Conference Room (5) | $100,000 |
| Research Lab – Small (2) | $100,000 |
| Collaboration Room (12) | $50,000 |
| Break Area | $25,000 |
| Faculty / Researcher Office (29) | $25,000 |
| Graduate Research Office Space (175) | $10,000 |
| Undergraduate Research Office Space (30) | $10,000 |
Become an Advocate
The Advocacy Network is the official grassroots network of the University of Tennessee. By signing up, you’ll receive regular updates about the Tennessee General Assembly’s legislative session and developments that impact the University of Tennessee System.
Volunteer with Chemistry
Alumni and friends of chemistry are vital members of our Volunteer community and serve as advocates in collaboration with department leadership, faculty, staff, and students to advance the mission and vision of chemistry at UT.
Invest in the Future
Philanthropic support is critical to building the future of chemistry at UT. Our students, faculty, staff, programs, and facilities all benefit from the investment of those who are committed to making life and lives better in Tennessee and beyond.