A Mission to Connect and Inspire
At the Network of Researchers on the Chemical Emergence of Life (NoRCEL), we are driven by one of science’s most profound questions: How did life begin? Founded by Dr. Sohan Jheeta in 2013, NoRCEL has since evolved into a vibrant and diverse global community of scientists, researchers, students and enthusiasts, united by a shared passion for understanding the chemical origins of life.
NoRCEL’s core mission is to promote and disseminate research on the chemical evolution of life—from prebiotic chemistry to the emergence of cellular life forms like Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya. We bring together interdisciplinary experts to tackle multifaceted challenges, from exploring reactive oxygen species (ROS) to hypothesising life’s existence beyond Earth. We’re also committed to addressing global issues through initiatives like the Blue Earth Project and making astroscience accessible through educational outreach, especially in the Global South.
Our network thrives on collaboration. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or an early-career scientist, NoRCEL offers a platform to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.


