PhD in Materials Science and Engineering in Ithaca United States | Cornell University

Cornell's cutting-edge materials research spans ceramics, complex fluids, metals, polymers, and semiconductors, examining both thin films and bulk materials. Researchers explore electrical, magnetic, mechanical, optical, and structural characteristics, with particular emphasis on composites, inorganic-organic hybrids, nanocomposites, organic optoelectronics, and material structures including grain boundaries, surfaces, and defects. The program also investigates material synthesis, processing techniques, and solid-state reactions in controlled systems. Electronic packaging represents another key research area involving multiple faculty members. Strong interdisciplinary connections exist across Cornell's academic departments. The Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) Ph.D. program attracts students from diverse engineering and physical science disciplines, including mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, and other fields, alongside MS&E undergraduates. Cornell values this diversity, providing students exceptional opportunities to engage with MSE's inherently interdisciplinary scope. Our Ph.D. graduates consistently achieve professional excellence, securing leadership positions across corporate, governmental, and academic institutions worldwide.