Heterocyclic and Synthesis Group:

 The Heterocyclic and Synthesis Group (originally The Heterocyclic Group) of The Royal Society of Chemistry was founded by a group of UK-based heterocyclic chemists, holding its first scientific meeting in 1967.  Membership is open to all RSC members and the group currently numbers around 1100 members from all corners of the globe. We are particularly proud of our strong links with industry (reflected in the number of our members who work in industry), and the excellent support we receive from industry in both sponsorship and speakers helps us to run high quality meetings.

 

We are also especially keen to promote the participation of “young” heterocyclic and synthetic chemists at our meetings i.e. postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers.  This is reflected in subsidised registration costs, travel and registration bursaries for postgraduates and opportunities to give short talks. We were also the first group to run a postgraduate meeting at which all the speakers were chosen from the postgraduate community.

 

The Lakeland Symposium:

 The Lakeland Symposium, commonly known as the “Grasmere” meeting, is the flagship meeting of the Group, held every two years in Grasmere in the Lake District; the 26th Lakeland Symposium will be held from 11th – 15th May 2025. The scientific sessions are held in Grasmere Village Hall in the mornings and evenings (starting in the evening on Sunday 11th May and finishing at lunchtime on Thursday 15th May), with the afternoons free to explore the surrounding hills and fells, discuss chemistry, catch up with work, or network.  The total number of participants will be limited to around 130 to maintain the convivial atmosphere. The meeting is relatively informal and dress during the lectures is informal. The banquet dinner on the Wednesday evening is generally a more formal affair, with smarter dress expected (shirts/ties the norm).

 

There will be organised walks each afternoon (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday). These range from a stroll by the Lake, to more demanding adventures for which, of course, sturdy footwear (walking boots) and waterproof clothing are essential.  The weather can be very variable even in May, and previous meetings have been basked in sunshine or in cold and very wet conditions! Fell walking opportunities will be available on Monday and Tuesday afternoon, led by one of our regular delegates, and it is hoped to hold the traditional ‘Katritzky Memorial Walk’ on the Wednesday afternoon – a challenging walk over the fells to Borrowdale, with refreshments at a local tearoom and a coach for the return to Grasmere. Those new to Grasmere can be assured of a warm invitation to join in!

 

Evening social events include a wine/beer/soft-drink reception in “The Inn” after the Sunday evening lectures (with 2 free drinks provided), a drinks reception at ‘The Inn’ after the Monday evening poster session at the Grasmere Hall (sponsored by the Katritzky Family Bequest) and the conference banquet dinner on the Wednesday evening (venue TBC, additional cost).

 

An informal programme of activities for accompanying persons will also be arranged.  Grasmere is an ideal location for accompanying persons – there is plenty to do!

 

The Grasmere Meeting is extremely popular and early registration is advised, as numbers are limited.

 

Registration for the 2023 meeting will be online. Registration is available online through the RSC events registration link , which can be reached via HERE

 

We look forward to welcoming you to Grasmere 2025.

 

The Organising Committee