Over the past decades, polymer membranes are becoming more and more compelling due to their growing demand in environment, energy and health fields. Many efforts have been devoted to improve the membrane performance and extend their application via the methodology of surface engineering. One of the most promising strategies is mussel-inspired chemistry, which has become a powerful tool in membrane fabrication and modification because of its universality and versatility. Considering the increasing interest and advances in this field, we present this review regarding mussel-inspired chemistry in the surface engineering of polymer membranes. The adhesion mechanism and properties of polydopamine (as a representative) are briefly outlined at the beginning. Then detailed elaboration is followed on the applications of mussel-inspired chemistry in the surface science and technology of membranes. Catecholamines can be directly deposited on the membrane surface, act as an interface layer for post-modification, serve as a surface component of membrane and pre-decorate polymers for membrane modification or fabrication. Finally, we summarize recent research progress and give a further perspective of the mussel-inspired catecholamine in membrane science and technology. Display omitted •Critical review of mussel-inspired chemistry in membrane surface engineering.•Illustration of adhesion mechanisms and properties of polydopamine.•Outline of applications both in membrane fabrication and surface modification.•Great potentials in separation membranes with high-performance and multi-function.