Timothy Schmidt

Professor Timothy Schmidt is the Head of the School of Chemistry at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). He holds a BSc (Hons 1M) from the University of Sydney (1997) and a PhD in femtosecond spectroscopy from the University of Cambridge (2002). His research focuses on molecular spectroscopy, astrochemistry, and quantum chemistry, with notable contributions to singlet fission, triplet-triplet annihilation, and exciton science. He is a Chief Investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science and has received prestigious awards such as the Coblentz Award (2010) and the RACI Physical Chemistry Medal (2021).

His work spans solar energy conversion, interstellar chemistry, and advanced materials. Key grants include the $31.9M ARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science (2017-23) and a $403k Discovery Grant for astrochemical spectroscopy (2019-21). He leads the development of photon upconversion technologies and has pioneered studies on carbon-based molecules in space. His teaching includes courses in physical chemistry and advanced chemistry for first-year students.

Prof. Schmidt’s labs are based in the Dalton Building and Science and Engineering Building at UNSW, with a focus on cutting-edge spectroscopic techniques. He actively engages in public science communication, including National Science Week talks. His research bridges fundamental physics and applied chemistry, addressing global challenges in energy and materials science.