Ph.D. Program

Pursue original research and prepare for a career in academia. Our Ph.D. program is completed in four to five years, and students typically receive full funding. Our faculty are leading researchers and our facilities are continually upgraded with state-of-the-art equipment. You’ll be surrounded by a community of scholars that is contributing to something greater and embracing the founding principles of Cornell University. Our culture of collegiality is unmatched.
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Vibha Kalra works with a student in Olin Hall lab.

Doctoral Student Experience at Cornell

The graduate student experience at Cornell and the R.F. Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering reflects a thriving community among its student groups and initiatives. Not only will you make significant contributions to the field, but you will also be part of a group that is making a societal impact.

Curriculum

All Ph.D. students complete at least two rotations before matching with a research group. Once you arrive on campus, you will attend a series of presentations to learn about individual faculty research and select the research groups for rotations. In early December, the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) will begin the process of matching students and faculty members.

Our program is very flexible. You shape your studies with graduate-level electives (in consultation with your special committee), complete a select set of core courses, take two exams, and complete a thesis with oversight from your special committee.

Research Areas

Ph.D. Program Contacts