Abstract. The work is devoted to the research activity of students as one of the factors in the formation of professional competence of future specialists, based on the case of studying chemistry by engineering students. The need to organise a student scientific association (SSA) in order to conduct research work most effectively is actualised. The creation of the “Fundamental Chemistry Laboratory” SSA is justified; its goals and objectives are listed; the approaches to the study of chemistry while performing research work are described. The stages of scientific research and the features of assimilation of knowledge, skills and abilities in chemistry are considered. Special attention is paid to the presentation of research work results at conferences and competitions as one of the criteria for the work of an SSA. The results of the survey of students on their satisfaction with work in the “Fundamental Chemistry Laboratory” SSA are presented. Satisfactory results of the independent study of chemistry in the course of the SSA’s work are revealed. It is noted that research activity is one of the tools for training specialists.
Keywords: research activity, student scientific association, chemistry, professional competence