Who Is Chemical Kim?

Chemical Kim is Kimberly Hilton, an award-winning science educator, chemistry professor, and science communicator reaching millions across digital platforms. Known for making chemistry visual, engaging, and accessible, she inspires audiences to explore their world through hands-on experimentation and real-world science.

Through presentations, community programs, and digital content, Chemical Kim has brought science to schools, libraries, foster care programs, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and children’s hospitals. At Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids, she developed a “Science Friday” program that allowed students in the hospital school to actively participate in hands-on science learning. Her outreach has also extended to television, beginning with The Chemical Kim Science Show on Public Media Network in Kalamazoo, where she received both a Philo T. Farnsworth Award and a PMN Spirit Award. She later served as resident scientist for WZZM 13, bringing science segments to morning television, and continues to appear in news and educational media, including Mission Unstoppable, where she recently taught about bioplastics.

As a chemistry professor, Chemical Kim focuses on improving chemical education, integrating technology into science learning, and advancing inclusion in STEM. She has developed curriculum through grant-supported work highlighting scientific achievements from Central and South America, authored technology grants that modernized chemistry laboratories, and introduced mobile learning tools into the classroom. She continues to lead workshops and presentations for colleges, schools, conferences, and national STEM audiences.

Chemical Kim earned her Bachelor of Science and Secondary Education Certification from Michigan Technological University, where she was later recognized as a featured alumna. She holds a master’s degree in chemistry from Central Michigan University and received its Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award. With more than 30 years in education across community college and high school classrooms, she has also coached cross country and track and continues to advocate for visibility and belonging in STEM, including being featured by 500 Queer Scientists.

Now based in Naples, Chemical Kim continues to combine education, media, and outreach while sharing her love of science, water adventures, photography, and creativity with her family.