ScotChem Polymers & Soft Materials Conference 2026

Welcome to the ScotChem Polymers and Soft Materials Conference 2026!

Bringing together polymer and soft materials researchers and industry from across the world, and showcasing recent advances in the field.

Hosted by Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, this is the fifth ScotCHEM Polymer & Soft Materials Conference, an annual fixture on Scotland’s chemistry research calendar.

The event brings together leading and early-career researchers, doctoral students and industry experts working in polymers and soft materials to share the latest advances in the field.

Registration includes lunch, refreshments and a drinks reception.

Keynote speakers

Prof. Andrew Dove (University of Birmingham)

Prof. Clare Mahon (University of Durham)

Dr Ina Vollmer (Utrecht University)

Invited speakers include

Dr Ryan Perreira (Heriot-Watt University)

Dr Euan Kay (University of St Andrews)

Dr Tahereh Nemiataram (University of Strathclyde)

Dr Maya Al Sid Cheikh (University of Edinburgh)

Dr Bernhard Schmidt (University of Glasgow)

Dr Sam Patterson (Impact Solutions)

Frank Stott (Croda)

ECR Abstract submission

There are opportunities for Early Career Researchers (ECRs) to present Oral and Flash presentations. ECR prizes will be given to the most deserving contributed presentations.

Details for abstracts for poster and flash presentations can be found here (Deadline 30/04/26).

Accommodation

Delegates attending the ScotChem Polymers and Soft Materials Conference 2026 can access a 15% discount on the standard best available room‑only rate at Courtyard Edinburgh West, located on the Heriot-Watt campus. The discount is subject to availability at the time of booking and cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions.

To book, delegates should contact the hotel directly by emailing reservations@courtyardedinburghwest.com or calling 0131 526 3210, quoting the meeting name:
“ScotChem Polymers and Soft Materials Conference 2026.”

Breakfast can be added for £10 per person per day.

We are grateful to the following sponsors:

• GPE Scientific
• Radleys
• Royal Society of Chemistry, Edinburgh and South East Scotland Local Section

Organising Committee

Dr Liam Donnelly (Conference Chair)

Dr Ruaraidh McIntosh

Dr Marc Little

Dr Dom Willcox