Dr Mario Fenech Caruana is a Senior Lecturer II in Chemistry at the G.F. Abela Junior College, University of Malta, where he has been teaching since 2000. His work is characterised by a longstanding commitment to science education, sustainability, and meaningful community engagement.
He began his academic journey with a B.Pharm.Tech. (Hons.) from the University of Malta in 1986, followed by a PGCE in 1991 and an M.Sc. in Environmental Health in 1999. His growing interest in improving chemistry education led him to pursue doctoral studies at the University of York, where he completed a Ph.D. in Science Education in 2016. His thesis explored how pre-university students in Malta responded to the integration of green chemistry into the curriculum.
In addition to his teaching at Junior College, Dr Fenech Caruana also lectures at the University of Malta’s Faculty of Education within the Department of Mathematics and Science Education. He has also contributed to the Faculty of Health Sciences and taught in a range of educational contexts, reflecting his experience in engaging with diverse student groups. He continues to support national education as a University Examiner with the MATSEC Examinations Board.
His research interests focus on Green and Sustainable Chemistry, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), and scientific literacy. His publications address student engagement in chemistry, barriers to subject uptake, and ways of enriching the laboratory experience. He is currently working on research related to enhancing scientific literacy among non-science students and regularly shares his work at the Annual International Multidisciplinary Conference at Junior College.
Dr Fenech Caruana was elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC) in February 2025 and awarded Chartered Chemist (CChem) status in April 2025. His career also includes experience in the public and industrial sectors, including roles in analytical and quality control capacities.
Beyond his professional work, he has held voluntary roles in organisations such as the Malta Volleyball Association and the Malta Olympic Committee. He is also active in the local music scene as a song lyricist, with contributions recognised in national festivals and awards.
