The University of Queensland’s Emerita Professor Mary Garson has made history as the new President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) — only the second Australian to lead the organisation in its 105-year history.
The lauded marine chemist – based in UQ’s School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences – assumed the role of IUPAC President on 1 January 2026, becoming just the third woman to hold the position.
For Professor Garson, the appointment carries a significance that extends well beyond personal achievement.
"My leadership role helps to profile Australia on the global scientific stage, which is incredibly satisfying," she said.
"I love to tell people that I run the organisation that looks after the periodic table – anyone who has studied science can relate to that."
IUPAC is the world authority on chemical nomenclature and terminology, including the naming of new elements in the periodic table, the standardisation of methods and digital standards in chemistry, and the determination of atomic weights.
It also provides objective scientific advice on critical global issues, from "forever" chemicals to sustainability.
Professor Garson is wasting no time shaping the organisation's future.
“I’m currently overseeing the relocation of the IUPAC Secretariat from the United States to a European multi-node base in Rome and Málaga – a timely shift, given the uncertain situation for science in the US," she said.
"The move allows us to align our operational arrangements with our global scientific mission and to strengthen support for our worldwide volunteer base.”
And she sees the challenges facing chemistry itself as equally urgent.
Decarbonisation, circular economy solutions, plastic waste and microplastics, and the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals all call for chemistry's central contribution.
In 2025, IUPAC launched its Guiding Principles of Responsible Chemistry – eight modules designed as a call to action for chemists worldwide.
Digitisation of scientific assets and responding to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence are also pressing priorities.
Professor Garson is also known for founding IUPAC's Global Women's Breakfast in 2011, an informal networking and mentoring event now held annually across more than 100 countries.
This year, over 415 events took place around the world.
To current and future UQ science students, her message is simple but powerful.
"Recognise opportunities as they are presented to you,” she said.
“Nobel laureates and pioneering scientists have defied conventional paths to reach the top of their fields.
“Background is no barrier to brilliance – winners can come from anywhere.”
