Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering

Students in our Ph.D. program come from a variety of engineering and physical science backgrounds. Some are materials science and engineering undergraduates, while many have degrees in areas such as mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, and other fields. At Cornell, we embrace this breadth of experience and offer students a unique opportunity to explore the broad and inherently interdisciplinary nature of materials science and engineering.
Apply Now
Student working in professor Hari Nair's lab.

Research

As a Ph.D. student, your largest effort will be devoted to research. At the same time, continued learning, through advanced graduate classes in areas selected by you and your special committee, will ensure substantial depth of knowledge and academic expertise in your chosen research specialization. Our program offers opportunities in the following distinct but integrated strategic research priorities:

“I was drawn to the interdisciplinary culture in materials science and engineering, especially coming from a different educational background in chemical engineering. It is one of the most highly-ranked programs nationwide with access to one of the best research shared facilities and institutes including Cornell Center for Materials Research, Cornell Energy Systems Institute, and Cornell Institute of Biotechnology. ”

Bashayer Aldakkan Ph.D. materials science and engineering
Female student sitting on a bench outside smilling

Research Areas

  • Bioinspired Materials and Systems

    Bioinspired composites, engineered protein films for adhesion, lubrication and sensing applications, molecular tools for in-vitro and in-vivo imaging (C-Dots, FRET), as well as biomaterials for tissue engineering and drug delivery.

  • Electronics and Photonics

    Oxide semiconductors, 3D integration, materials beyond silicon, high K and low K dielectrics, plasmonics, spintronics and multiferroics.

  • Energy Production and Storage

    Photocatalysis, photovoltaics, thermoelectrics, phononics, batteries and supercapacitors.

  • Green Technologies

    We have targeted green composites and new systems for CO2 capture and conversion as areas of future growth.

Beyond Academics

  • Graduate Student Experience

    Round out your academic experience with extracurricular activities that develop your leadership experience, communication skills and new perspectives, all while having fun!

  • Students gathering at tables in a shared study space in Tang Hall.
Students talk while relaxing on grassy hill

  • Location

    Cornell is located in the beautiful New York Finger Lakes region with an abundance of outdoor activities, natural beauty and thriving restaurant and brewery scene. Ithaca is also within easy driving distance of New York City, Boston, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.

Contact Us

  • Assistant Director of Graduate Programs

    Jannica Moskal
    Bard Hall, Room 210
    Ithaca, NY 14853-1501
    mse-meng@cornell.edu