PhD in Chemical Engineering - Sustainable Energy Systems in Ithaca United States | Cornell University

The Smith School's doctoral program in chemical engineering equips you for academic and research careers. Typically spanning four to five years, the fully funded program enables students to make meaningful advancements in the discipline while joining an exceptional scholarly community.
Our chemical engineering department boasts top-tier researchers and continuously enhanced facilities with cutting-edge technology, all within an unrivaled atmosphere of collaboration. As you work toward your thesis, you'll join a vibrant academic network upholding Cornell University's foundational values. The program emphasizes developing profound understanding of fundamental and applied sciences while cultivating innovation and creativity. Thesis options include specialized projects in design, economics, or mathematical analysis, with no foreign language requirement for chemical engineering majors.

Global population growth and rising living standards will dramatically escalate energy demands over the next four decades, creating significant challenges for sustainable energy solutions. Cornell stands at the forefront of sustainable development initiatives. Beyond the Cornell Energy Systems Institute (CSEI), multiple university centers collaborate on related research, including the Cornell Center for a Sustainable Future and the Cornell Fuel Cell Institute. The Robert Frederick Smith School plays a pivotal role in these endeavors. Chemical engineering education provides essential skills for addressing diverse energy challenges through its comprehensive approach encompassing energy transformations, heat/mass transfer, advanced materials, process design, and lifecycle analysis. Current energy research in CBE focuses on: Sustainable processing methods for renewable and conventional energy sources. Development of next-generation solar technology, photochemical converters, and advanced storage systems using nanotechnology. Creation of biofuels and bioproducts from various biomass sources, along with innovative geothermal energy solutions.