Stanford University's Department of Chemical Engineering is one of the most prestigious and highly regarded programs in the world. With a rich history dating back to 1959, the department has been at the forefront of innovation and research in the field of chemical engineering. The department's faculty and students have made significant contributions to the development of new technologies, materials, and processes that have transformed industries and improved lives. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford's chemical engineering program benefits from its proximity to many leading tech companies, startups, and research institutions, providing students with unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, internships, and job placement.
Academic Programs and Research Areas
Stanford’s Department of Chemical Engineering offers a range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in chemical engineering, as well as interdisciplinary programs in fields such as energy, environment, and biotechnology. The department’s research areas are diverse and cutting-edge, with faculty and students working on projects related to energy and environment, biotechnology and biomolecular engineering, materials science and nanotechnology, and process systems engineering. Students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including the Stanford Nano Shared Facilities, the Stanford Institute for Materials and Energy Sciences, and the Stanford Energy and Environmental Sciences Building.
Undergraduate Programs
The undergraduate program in chemical engineering at Stanford is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the principles of chemical engineering, as well as a broad range of electives and research opportunities. Students can choose from a variety of courses, including transport phenomena, thermodynamics, and chemical reaction engineering. The program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in industry, government, or academia. The undergraduate program also offers a range of research opportunities, including the Stanford Chemical Engineering Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, which provides students with hands-on research experience and mentorship from faculty and graduate students.
| Research Area | Faculty | Research Description |
|---|---|---|
| Energy and Environment | Professor Sally Benson | Developing new technologies for carbon capture, utilization, and storage |
| Biotechnology and Biomolecular Engineering | Professor Christina Smolke | Designing new biological systems for the production of biofuels and other chemicals |
| Materials Science and Nanotechnology | Professor Yi Cui | Developing new materials and devices for energy storage and conversion |
Faculty and Research Excellence
Stanford’s Department of Chemical Engineering has a distinguished faculty of over 30 professors, many of whom are National Academy of Engineering members, National Academy of Sciences members, or winners of prestigious awards such as the Nobel Prize. The faculty are recognized for their excellence in research, teaching, and mentorship, and have made significant contributions to the development of new technologies and industries. The department’s research excellence is reflected in its high rankings, with Stanford’s chemical engineering program consistently ranked among the top in the nation by US News & World Report and other publications.
Research Centers and Institutes
Stanford’s Department of Chemical Engineering is affiliated with a range of research centers and institutes, including the Stanford Institute for Materials and Energy Sciences (SIMES), the Stanford Energy and Environmental Sciences Building (SEES), and the Center for Sustainable Development and Global Competitiveness (CSDGC). These centers and institutes provide students and faculty with access to state-of-the-art research facilities, collaboration opportunities, and funding for research projects. The centers and institutes also host seminars, workshops, and conferences, bringing together leading researchers and industry experts to discuss the latest developments and challenges in the field.
- Stanford Institute for Materials and Energy Sciences (SIMES)
- Stanford Energy and Environmental Sciences Building (SEES)
- Center for Sustainable Development and Global Competitiveness (CSDGC)
- Stanford Center for Carbon Capture and Utilization (SCCCU)
What are the admission requirements for the undergraduate program in chemical engineering at Stanford?
+Admission to the undergraduate program in chemical engineering at Stanford is highly competitive. Applicants must submit an application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have SAT scores between 1420 and 1570, and ACT scores between 32 and 35.
What are the research opportunities available to graduate students in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Stanford?
+Graduate students in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Stanford have access to a wide range of research opportunities, including research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships. Students can work with faculty on research projects, participate in research groups, and collaborate with other students and researchers from other departments.
In conclusion, Stanford University’s Department of Chemical Engineering is a world-renowned program that offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of chemical engineering. With its distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and interdisciplinary research opportunities, Stanford’s chemical engineering program is an ideal place for students to pursue their academic and professional goals. The department’s commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and mentorship has made it a leader in the field, and its graduates have gone on to make significant contributions to industry, government, and academia.
