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10 Top PhD Programs in Chemistry in 2024

A PhD program in Chemistry can equip you with a range of professional skills and advanced knowledge in the field. With a doctorate in chemistry on your resume, you’ll be able to find prestigious jobs in research labs, industry, academia, or government.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of chemists and material scientists is $79,760 , and jobs are estimated to grow by 6%  over the next decade, in line with growth prospects for all professions.

Which of the best PhD programs in Chemistry is right for you?

Read on to learn about the best programs, including essential information like tuition, acceptance rates, and whether you can get a degree online or not.

Table of Contents

Top PhD Programs in Chemistry

1. massachusetts institute of technology.

PhD in Chemistry

Massachusetts Institute of Technology has been ranked first in the nation  for Chemistry, so it’s no surprise that this is one of the best PhD in Chemistry programs. The program is flexible because students can choose courses based on their long-term research goals.

• Courses include: Principles of inorganic chemistry, crystal structure refinement, and heterocyclic chemistry.
• Credits: 48
• Duration: 4 years +
• Tuition:  Full funding
• Financial aid: Fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships.
• Delivery: On-campus
• Acceptance rate: 7.3%
• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

2. Stanford University, School of Humanities and Sciences

Stanford University is one of the world’s leading research institutions with innovative and flexible programs. This chemistry PhD program is world-class with a cross-disciplinary approach, collaborating with various other departments and institutes.

• Courses include: Advanced inorganic chemistry, organic polyfunctional compounds, and chemical principles.
• Duration: 5 years
• Tuition: Refer tuition page
• Financial aid: Research assistantship, teaching assistantship, fellowships, grants, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 5.2%
• Location: Stanford, California

3. California Institute of Technology, Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

Caltech’s Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering is renowned for its large number of faculty members conducting leading research in chemistry, biochemistry, and chemical engineering. This chemistry doctoral program aims to develop students’ creative and original research abilities.

• Courses include: Bioinorganic chemistry, organic reaction mechanisms, and advanced quantum chemistry.
• Duration: 5.5 years average
• Tuition : $56,364
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, work-study, fellowships, assistantships, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 6.7%
• Location: Pasadena, California

4. Harvard University, The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

PhD in Chemistry and Chemical Biology

Harvard University’s faculty in the Chemistry and Chemical Biology division includes several Nobel and Welch Award laureates conducting research in various areas of interest in chemistry. In this PhD program for chemistry, students can pursue interdisciplinary research in various institutes and research centers in the Boston area.

• Courses include: Advanced organic chemistry, materials chemistry, and advanced inorganic chemistry.
• Duration: 5-6 years
• Tuition: Full funding
• Financial aid: Scholarships, research assistantships, and fellowships.
• Acceptance rate: 5%

5. Northwestern University, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences

Northwestern University’s Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking that is adaptive, flexible, and practical in the context of the modern world. This chemistry PhD program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in chemistry and valuable exposure to research projects important to wider society.

• Courses include: Organic chemistry, physical/analytical chemistry, and biological chemistry.
• Financial aid: Fellowships, graduate assistantships, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 9.3%
• Location: Evanston, Illinois

6. Yale University, Department of Chemistry

Yale is one of the most acclaimed universities in the world, with a diverse student population, including 22%  international students from a total of 115 different nations . This flexible PhD chemistry program allows students to choose their areas of study based on their research subjects rather than maintaining a rigid course list.

• Courses include: Fundamentals of transition metal chemistry, bioinorganic spectroscopy, and organic structures & energetics.
• Financial aid: Stipends, fellowships, and grants.
• Acceptance rate: 6.5%
• Location: New Haven, Connecticut

7. The University of Chicago, Department of Chemistry

The chemistry department was one of the University of Chicago’s first departments to be inaugurated and currently has a strong faculty in organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, as well as interdisciplinary studies. This is also one of the most flexible Chemistry PhD programs in the country, allowing you to study from different departments as well as giving you the freedom to choose your areas of study.

• Courses include: Complex chemical systems, chemical biology, and chemical dynamics.
• Tuition : $63,936
• Financial aid: Fellowships, research assistantships, health insurance, grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans.
• Location: Chicago, Illinois

8. Princeton University, Department of Chemistry

Princeton University’s prestigious Frick Chemistry Laboratory encourages faculty and students to conduct collaborative and interdisciplinary research in the field. This doctorate degree in chemistry encourages students to pursue individualized studies and conduct original research in specific areas of chemistry.

• Courses include: Advanced quantum chemistry, biophysical chemistry, and synthetic organic chemistry.
• Tuition : $57,410
• Financial aid: Assistantships, fellowships, work-study, veteran benefits, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 5.6%
• Location: Princeton, New Jersey

9. The University of California, Berkeley, College of Chemistry

The University of California was founded with a vision for a better future and is well-known as a pioneer in various areas, including diversity and free speech. This graduate program offers three concentrations: physical chemistry, synthetic chemistry, and chemical biology.

• Courses include: Chemical kinetics, coordination chemistry, and organic reactions.
• Tuition : $14,476
• Financial aid: Fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, grants, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 17.5%
• Location: Berkeley, California

10. Cornell University, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology

Cornell’s Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology has a history of discovery and innovation and boasts Nobel laureates as well as National Academy Members among its faculty. The TATP (Teaching Assistant Training Program) is an integral part of this PhD program, and a satisfactory performance in this program is a mandatory part of the doctorate.

• Courses include: Engineering general chemistry, principles of organic chemistry, and physical chemistry of proteins.
• Financial aid: Teaching assistantship, research assistantship, fellowships, grants, stipend, and health insurance.
• Acceptance rate: 10.7%
• Location: Ithaca, New York

What Do You Need To Get a PhD in Chemistry?

To be admitted as a PhD candidate , you’ll generally need a master’s in chemistry or a related field. As part of the application process, you’ll typically need to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and a personal statement or research proposal.

Other documentation may be required depending on the program you want to apply for, so check the requirements with the admissions office.

Most PhD in chemistry programs involve a mix of coursework, which may cover chemistry courses and related sciences, and a research thesis or dissertation.

To earn your doctorate in chemistry, you typically also need to participate in seminars, pass oral and written exams, and complete a teaching assistantship.

Preparing for a Chemistry Doctorate Program

A PhD in chemistry is a technical, relatively-difficult advanced degree, so it’s important to prepare well to get the best results. Ahead of commencing, or even applying for the program, familiarize yourself with the latest developments and research in the field.

It can be a good idea to join professional associations, take advantage of other networking opportunities, and seek out extra-curricular activities in the field. Practical experience can also be very valuable, so try to work in a lab if possible.

Things To Consider When Choosing a Chemistry PhD Program

There are a range of chemistry doctorate programs offered by different institutions and covering several different concentrations. Before choosing the right program for you, it’s important to carefully consider your interests, passions, and career goals in order to decide on your preferred area of study.

From there, look for strong programs in this discipline with renowned faculty specializing in your area of interest.

Other key factors to consider include the following:

• Mode of delivery: on-campus, online, or hybrid
• School location, accessibility, and affordability to live in the area if you’re planning on studying on campus
• Program costs, including not only tuition but also fees and other expenses
• Financial aid options

Why Get a Doctorate in Chemistry?

A PhD in chemistry is one of the most in-demand and highest-paying PhDs . Graduates with a PhD chemistry are highly employable, with most finding roles in private industry. According to Duke University , from their 242 candidates, 118 were employed in business/industry, and Boston University  also tells us that most PhD Chemistry holders are employed in the private sector.

The benefits of studying for a doctorate in chemistry include:

• High level of prestige
• Many chemistry PhD programs are fully-funded or offer access significant to financial aid
• Wide range of job prospects in academia, research, and management
• Access to senior leadership positions and opportunities to manage research projects

Jobs you can land with a PhD in Chemistry include:

• Post-doctoral Research Assistant ( $52,672 )
• Chemical Materials Scientist ( $130,008 )
• Professor of Chemistry ( $94,914 )
• Development Chemist ( $59,802 )
• Director of Research ( $107,150 )

The tuition for a PhD in chemistry can range from $10,000 to $70,000 based on various factors, with public schools being much more affordable than private schools. On top of tuition, you also need to consider other expenses, such as fees, study materials, and living expenses. However, many chemistry doctorates offer scholarships, grants, and even full funding.

For most programs, you’ll take around five years to complete a chemistry PhD when studying full-time. However, it can take up to seven years or even longer in some cases.

What Skills Do You Gain When Doing a Ph.D. in Chemistry?

You’ll build a range of advanced skills as part of a PhD in Chemistry program, most notably:

• Research skills
• Communication skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Mentoring and teaching skills
• Leadership skills
• Organizational skills

PhD in Chemistry FAQs

How long does a phd in chemistry take.

A PhD in Chemistry takes five years to complete on average, though the duration can typically be anywhere between three and seven years.

Which Field of Chemistry Is Best for a PhD?

There is no single field that is best for a PhD in Chemistry. The best option for you will depend on your preferences, interests, and career ambitions. Common specializations include organic,         inorganic, physical, analytical, and computational chemistry.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Chemistry?

A PhD in chemistry is typically considered the most advanced degree in this scientific field and opens up a range of positions in academia, research, and the private sector. Positions for graduates with PhD doctorates include lecturers, professors, research leaders, environmental scientists, and materials scientists.

Is It Hard To Get a PhD in Chemistry?

Given that chemistry is a highly technical field and a PhD is an advanced degree, it’s not surprising that a PhD in chemistry is an in-depth, involved, and relatively-challenging degree. There’s no denying that you’ll need a background in the field and a certain degree of dedication to earn your doctorate in chemistry, but it’s certainly not impossible with some hard work and a little passion!

Key Takeaways

A PhD in chemistry is a valuable, advanced degree that opens up a wide range of career prospects, including senior-level positions in research, industry, and academia. There are a number of high-quality PhD programs in chemistry offered by renowned institutions across the country, covering a range of disciplines and including both on-campus and online programs .

Be clear on your areas of interest and career objectives, do your research to choose the best program for you, and you can’t go wrong!

For more options, look at our guide to the best online PhD programs , or if you’re ready to start preparing your application, check out our ultimate grad school test guide .

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Survey of Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry

By Joel Shulman

How does your chemistry Ph.D. program compare to others in terms of department size and student demographics? Requirements for the degree? Graduate student progression and support? Developing skills that go beyond knowledge of chemistry? Answers to these questions and many others can be gleaned from the Survey of Ph.D. Programs in Chemistry recently reported by the ACS Committee on Professional Training (CPT) . Highlights of the survey are given here.

View the full report

The primary objective of the CPT is to facilitate the maintenance and improvement of the quality of chemical education at the postsecondary level. Not only does the Committee develop and administer the guidelines that define high-quality undergraduate education, but it also produces resources such as the ACS Directory of Graduate Education and publishes data on undergraduate and graduate education. Approximately every ten years, CPT fields a survey of Ph.D. programs. The latest survey solicited data from all 196 Ph.D. programs in chemistry and received usable information (base year, 2007) from 139 of these programs.

Figure 1. Size Distribution of Ph.D. Programs

Program size and demographics of students

The 139 reporting Ph.D. programs are divided for purposes of comparison into three groups of approximately equal size according to the total number of graduate students in the program: 44 small (defined as 0 to 40 total graduate students), 46 medium (41 to 105 graduate students), and 49 large programs (106+ graduate students). The number of students in Ph.D. programs ranges from 0 to 394 (see Figure 1) with a total of 13,280 students. Eighteen departments have more than 200 students, accounting for more than one-third (4,460) of the total graduate students in chemistry. The 30 largest programs account for almost 50% of graduate students. The average program size is 96 students (and 23 faculty), while the median program size is 67 students.

Of the doctoral students in responding programs, 27.4% are women, 5.2% are underrepresented minorities, and 42.3% are international students (Table 1). Small programs tend to have a higher percentage of underrepresented minority students (averaging 7.8%), while large programs have a higher percentage of women (28.5%) and a lower percentage of international students (37.3%).

Table 1. Demographics of Graduate Students by Program Size

Requirements for degree (Table 2)

Of course, a doctoral dissertation is required by all Ph.D. programs. Most (71%) graduate programs require entering graduate students to take placement exams, although this requirement tends to be less prevalent as program size increases. The average program requires a minimum of 20 credits (semester hours, corrected for programs on the quarter system) of coursework, a number that does not vary significantly by program size. In addition to course work and dissertation, 96% of programs require at least one of the following: cumulative examinations (58%), an oral preliminary exam (54%), a comprehensive oral exam (50%), and/or a comprehensive written exam (31%). All four of these exams are required by 7% of programs; 17% of programs require three; 43% of programs require two; and 28% require only one. Large programs require cumulative exams less often and oral exams more often than small or medium programs. Only four programs (3%) require students to pass a language exam for the Ph.D.

Table 2. Requirement in Ph.D. Program

Graduate Student Progression and Support (Table 3)

The mean time to the Ph.D. is 5.1 years, a number that varies neither by program size nor by public vs. private institution (data not shown). Most programs place a limit on the amount of time allowed to achieve a Ph.D. (average of 7.8 years) as well as on the number of years of departmental support allowed a student (average of 5.9 years). More than 80% of students choose a research advisor within six months of entering graduate school. A significant number of programs either require or permit laboratory rotations before a final advisor is selected.

Monetary support for Ph.D. students comes from teaching assistantships more often than from research assistantships at small and medium programs, while the reverse is true in large programs. There is wide variation in TA stipends, depending on both program size and geographic location. Most programs have a range of stipends, which on average run from $18,000 to about $20,000 per year. Teaching assistants at larger programs are more likely to teach discussion (recitation) sections than those in small or medium programs.

Table 3. Student Progression and Support in Ph.D. Programs

Developing Student Skills

In addition to chemistry knowledge and laboratory skills, it is important that all Ph.D. chemists develop skills in areas such as critical thinking, oral and written communication, and teamwork. Toward this end, 74% of all programs require students to create and defend an original research proposal (Table 2). All but six programs require students to make presentations (exclusive of the thesis defense) to audiences other than their research group; the average number of required presentations is 2.4, with little variation by program size. When asked whether any graduate students receive student-skills training outside of formal course work, 67% responded that at least some students receive specific training in communications; 59% in ethics/scientific integrity; 43% in grant writing; 37% in mentoring; 37% in intellectual property/patents; and 18% in business/economics. Students in large programs are more likely to receive some training in these skill areas than are students in other programs.

The data from this CPT survey provide a snapshot of graduate student demographics, requirements for the degree, and progression and support in chemistry Ph.D. programs. Survey results highlight similarities and differences among small, medium, and large programs across the country.

Dr. Joel I. Shulman retired as The Procter & Gamble Company's Manager of Doctoral Recruiting and University Relations in 2001 and is now an adjunct professor of chemistry at the University of Cincinnati. He serves the ACS as a consultant for the Office of Graduate Education and the Department of Career Management and Development and as a member of the Committee on Professional Training.

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Graduate Programs

Chemistry phd.

The goal of the Chemistry PhD is to prepare students for careers in science as researchers and educators by expanding their knowledge of chemistry while developing their ability for critical analysis, creativity, and independent study. A high graduation rate in an average of just over five years can be attributed to the quality of applicants admitted, the flexibility of our program of study, the opportunity for students to begin research in the first year, and the affordability of education made possible by our generous financial support policies.

Program Overview

Programs of study are tailored to the needs of individual students, based on their prior training and research interests. However, progress to a degree is generally similar for all students. During the first year, students take courses, begin their teaching apprenticeships, choose research advisors, and embark on their thesis research; students whose native language is not English must pass an English proficiency examination. Beginning the first summer, the emphasis is on research, although courses of special interest may be taken throughout a student's residency. In the second year, there is a departmental examination which includes a written research proposal and an oral defense of the research proposal. In the third year, students advance to candidacy for the doctorate by defending the topic, preliminary findings, and future research plans for their dissertation. Subsequent years focus on thesis research and writing the dissertation. Most students graduate during their fifth year.

Research Opportunities

Research opportunities for graduate students are comprehensive and interdisciplinary, spanning inorganic, organic, physical, analytical, computational, and theoretical chemistry; surface and materials chemistry; and atmospheric and environmental chemistry. Please refer to the faculty pages for full descriptions of the ongoing research in our department. State-of-the-art facilities and laboratories support these research programs.

At UCSD, chemists and biochemists are part of a thriving community that stretches across campus and out into research institutions throughout the La Jolla and San Diego area, uniting researchers in substantive interactions and collaborations.

Special Training Programs

Interdisciplinary research and collaboration at UCSD is enhanced through a variety of training grants. These programs provide financial support for exceptional graduate and postdoctoral scholars and also unite researchers from across campus and throughout the La Jolla research community in special seminars, retreats, and courses. Doctoral students are usually placed on training grants in their second year or later.

• Molecular Biophysics Training Grant
• Contemporary Approaches to Cancer Cell Signaling and CommunicationBiochemistry of Growth Regulation and Oncogenesis
• Chemistry Biology Interfaces Training Grant
• Contemporary Approaches to Cancer Cell Signaling and Communication
• Interfaces Graduate Training Program
• Molecular Pharmacology Training Program
• UC San Diego MRSEC
• Quantitative Biology (qBio) Specialization

Teaching apprenticeships are a vital and integral part of graduate student training, and four quarters of teaching are required. See the Teaching Assistants page to apply. Students can gain experience teaching both discussion and laboratory sections. Excellence in teaching is stressed, and the department provides a thorough training program covering both fundamentals and special techniques for effective instruction. Further training is provided by the Teaching and Learning Commons on campus. Performance is evaluated every quarter, and awards are bestowed quarterly for outstanding teaching performance.

• Financial Support

Students in good academic standing receive a 12-month stipend; fees and tuition are also provided. Support packages come from a variety of sources, including teaching and research assistantships, training grants, fellowships, and awards. Special fellowships are awarded to outstanding students based on their admission files. See Ph.D. Program Support Policy for more information.

Health and Dental Plan

A primary health care program, major medical plan, and dental plan are among the benefits provided by the University's registration fee (see Graduate Student Health Insurance Program, GSHIP) . Minor illnesses and injuries can usually be treated at the Student Health Center . Counseling is provided free of charge through Counseling and Psychological Services .

Creative, bright, and motivated students from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We admit for the Fall quarter entrance only. See UCSD Ph.D. Admissions FAQ page for full information.

PostGraduate Placement

Graduates typically obtain jobs in academia or in the chemical industry. Many take postdoctoral research positions in academic institutions and national laboratories that lead to future academic or industrial careers at other prestigious institutions. Our faculty and Student Affairs staff provide career advising and job placement services. The department's Industrial Relations program assists students with placement in industrial positions. UCSD's Career Services Center provides many resources for students, including the chance to videotape yourself in a mock interview!

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About the Chemistry Ph.D. Program

Ph.d. in chemistry faq's.

The Chemistry PhD program is designed towards developing within each student the ability to do creative scientific research. Accordingly, the single most important facet of the curriculum for an individual is their own research project. In keeping with the goal of fostering an atmosphere of scholarly, independent study, formal course requirements are minimal and vary among disciplines; advisor's tailor course requirements to best prepare the student for the chosen research field.

The Doctoral program includes the following concentrations, each of which has specific degree requirements:

• Physical Chemistry : In general, the Physical Chemistry Graduate Program encompasses analytical, nuclear, biophysical, and theoretical chemistry.
• Synthetic Chemistry : The Synthetic Chemistry Graduate Program includes emphases in either organic or inorganic chemistry
• Chemical Biology : The Chemical Biology Graduate Program covers a range of research areas at the interface of Chemistry and Biology.

Research. A graduate student spends a good deal of time during the first week of the first semester at Berkeley talking to various faculty members about possible research projects, studying pertinent literature references, and choosing an individual project. New graduate students meet shortly after their arrival with a faculty adviser. From the faculty adviser the student obtains a list of faculty members whose research may interest the student. After visiting these and additional faculty, if necessary, the student chooses a research director, with the consent of the faculty member and the graduate adviser. By the end of the first semester most students have made a choice and are full-fledged members of research group. Students in the Chemical Biology Graduate Program will select their thesis advisor after completion of three-ten week rotations. Thereafter, all students become involved in library research on their projects and many begin actual experimental or theoretical work.

Independent Study. A student who chooses to specialize in physical chemistry is normally expected to take two courses per semester during the first year and one or two additional semesters of coursework sometimes during the second year. These may include topics such Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics, Group Theory, Interactions of Radiation with Matter, and many more. At the other extreme, a student specializing in inorganic chemistry will concentrate more heavily on special topics seminars and take fewer courses. The course offerings in the University are varied so that individual students have the opportunity to take other courses which serve their own needs. Such as, a student working on nuclear chemistry will probably elect additional graduate physics courses, while a student working on biophysical or bio-organic problems may take courses offered by the Biochemistry Department. Students in the Chemical Biology program will take courses from both Chemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology departments.

Seminars. Because of the size and diversity of the Berkeley faculty, there are many seminars on a variety of topics which students may choose to attend. There are regular weekly seminars in several major areas, including biophysical, physical, nuclear, organic, theoretical, solid state, and inorganic chemistry. These seminars are presented by members of the Berkeley faculty, as well as distinguished visitors to the campus. These seminars allow the students to become aware of the most important current research going on in the field. In addition to these regular seminars, there are several regular department seminars devoted to presentations by graduate students. One of the doctoral program requirements is that each student delivers a departmental seminar known as a graduate research conference during the second year. Individual research groups also hold regular research seminars. The format of these small, informal seminars varies. In some cases, graduate students discuss their own current research before the other members of the research group. On other occasions, the group seminars may be devoted to group discussions of recent papers which are of interest to the particular research group. In any event, small group seminars are one of the most important ways in which students learn by organizing and interpreting their own results before their peers.

Qualifying Exam. Sometime during the second year of graduate work at Berkeley, each student takes a qualifying examination. The examining board, a committee of four faculty members, is appointed to examine the student for general competence in the area of interest. The qualifying examination is centered around the defense of the individual research project. Upon satisfactory completion of the oral qualifying examination, the student is advanced to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree. After advancement, the student completes an original, scholarly contribution to science and writes a dissertation on the subject. Most students complete their work and received their degree within five years.

Teaching. An integral part of the graduate education at Berkeley is teaching. The department requires that each doctoral candidate assist in the instructional program of the department as a teaching assistant for two semesters during their graduate careers. The faculty regard the teaching experience as highly valuable for all graduate students, especially those who plan to teach as a career.

Financial Aid. All students admitted to our graduate program receive a stipend for the duration of study in the form of teaching and research assistantships as long as they are in residence and demonstrate good progress toward the degree. Students also receive full tution, health, dental and vision insurance. Most funds for this support derive from research contracts and grants.

For more information see the Berkeley Bulletin

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PhD Program

Professor Wender discusses chemistry with his graduate students.

Doctoral study in chemistry at Stanford University prepares students for research and teaching careers with diverse emphases in basic, life, medical, physical, energy, materials, and environmental sciences.

The Department of Chemistry offers opportunities for graduate study spanning contemporary subfields, including theoretical, organic, inorganic, physical, biophysical and biomedical chemistry and more. Much of the research defies easy classification along traditional divisions; cross-disciplinary collaborations with Stanford's many vibrant research departments and institutes is among factors distinguishing this world-class graduate program.

The Department of Chemistry is committed to providing academic advising in support of graduate student scholarly and professional development.  This advising relationship entails collaborative and sustained engagement with mutual respect by both the adviser and advisee.

• The adviser is expected to meet at least monthly with the graduate student to discuss on-going research.
• There should be a yearly independent development plan (IDP) meeting between the graduate student and adviser. Topics include research progress, expectations for completion of PhD, areas for both the student and adviser to improve in their joint research effort.
• A research adviser should provide timely feedback on manuscripts and thesis chapters.
• Graduate students are active contributors to the advising relationship, proactively seeking academic and professional guidance and taking responsibility for informing themselves of policies and degree requirements for their graduate program.
• If there is a significant issue concerning the graduate student’s progress in research, the adviser must communicate this to the student and to the Graduate Studies Committee in writing.  This feedback should include the issues, what needs to be done to overcome these issues and by when.

Academic advising by Stanford faculty is a critical component of all graduate students' education and additional resources can be found in the  Policies and Best Practices for Advising Relationships at Stanford  and the  Guidelines for Faculty-Student Advising at Stanford .

Learn more about the program through the links below, and by exploring the research interests of the  Chemistry Faculty  and  Courtesy Faculty .

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Ph.D. in Chemistry

Graduate students earn a Ph.D. through independent research in collaboration with one or more faculty members . A modest amount of graded coursework ensures a thorough grounding in the fundamentals of the chosen field, as well as breadth of knowledge in the chemical sciences. The median time to complete all requirements for the Ph.D. is about five years. Students are required to pass oral examinations in their area of specialization. There are no pre-entrance or qualifying exams.

For complete details about our doctoral program, see the pages below:

• First Year of Study
• Ph.D. Degree Requirements
• Ph.D. Degree Timeline
• 2nd Year Exam Guidelines (pdf)
• General Exam Instructions (pdf)
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PhD in Chemistry

The PhD in chemistry is primarily a research degree. It is awarded to students who have displayed competence in planning and conducting original research in the field of chemistry, demonstrated a broad familiarity with the science of chemistry, understanding in the application of the scientific method, and gained a thorough knowledge of their field of specialization.

Students build a solid foundation in all four core areas of chemistry (analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical), and a thorough knowledge of their chosen field of specialization. In the first part of the PhD program, students take at least one formal classroom course in each the core areas of chemistry as outlined in the course requirements below. The courses must be completed successfully (B- or better) by the end of the third semester.

Since original research is the primary requirement for the PhD degree, a student selects a research supervisor and begins research before the end the first year. The student and research supervisor then select two faculty members to serve as the student's Doctoral Research Committee. The Committee, in conjunction with the student's research adviser, take over the advisory function from the graduate committee and guides the student's work to promote development as an independent investigator.

Thus, in addition to research each student must complete the following requirements:

• Service as a teaching assistant
• Regular progress updates with a faculty Research Committee
• A departmental seminar
• Defense of an original research proposal.
• Completion of a dissertation reporting significant work of publishable quality

Course Requirements

At least one of the following analytical chemistry courses:

• Chem 141: Instrumental Analysis
• Chem 142: Advanced Analytical Methods
• Chem 144: Spectroscopic Methods of Analysis
• Chem 145: Separation Science
• Chem 146: Electroanalytical Chemistry

At least one of the following inorganic chemistry courses: 

• Chem 161: Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
• Chem 162: Chemistry of Transition Elements
• Chem 164: Bioinorganic Chemistry
• Chem 165: Physical Methods In Inorganic Chemistry

At least one of the following organic chemistry courses:

• Chem 150: Intermediate Organic Chemistry
• Chem 151: Physical Organic Chemistry
• Chem 152: Advanced Organic Synthesis

At least one of the following physical chemistry courses: 

• Chem 131: Statistical Thermodynamics
• Chem 132: Chemical Kinetics and Dynamics
• Chem 133: Quantum Mechanics
• Chem 134: Biophysical Chemistry
• Chem 136: Spectroscopy and Molecular Structure
• Chem 138: Atomic Scale Structure and Properties of Surfaces  
• Two additional classroom courses, exclusive of research, must be completed satisfactorily by the end of the fourth semester

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Chemistry PhD Program

The University of Pennsylvania is an internationally renowned research institution that attracts the best students from the United States and around the globe. The Graduate Program is designed for students who wish to earn a Ph.D. in Chemistry while undertaking cutting edge research. The program provides students with the necessary theoretical background and hands-on training to become independent and highly successful scientists.  Graduate students achieve mastery of advanced chemistry topics through courses in different subdisciplines. Broad exposure to current research also occurs via four weekly departmental seminar programs and many interdisciplinary, university-wide lecture series.

Currently, faculty, students, and postdoctoral associates in Chemistry work in the fields of bioinorganic chemistry, bioorganic chemistry, chemical biology, biophysical chemistry, bioinformatics, materials science, laser chemistry, health related chemistry, structural and dynamical studies of biological systems, X-ray scattering/diffraction, NMR spectroscopy, applications of computing and computer graphics, as well as investigations of chemical communication and hormone-receptor interactions. Many research groups combine different techniques to explore frontier areas, such as nanomaterials applied to biology, photoactive biomolecules, and single-molecule imaging. Novel synthetic procedures are under constant development for targets ranging from super-emissive nanoparticles to highly specialized drug molecules and giant dendrimers, which are being explored, for example, as drug-delivery systems. The Research Facilities in the Department of Chemistry provide a strong technology base to enable the highest level of innovation. Graduate students are a driving, integral force at Penn Chemistry.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Chemistry

Graduate studies in Chemistry at KU are intended to prepare graduate students for any of the multitude of career pathways available to individuals who hold a doctorate in the Chemical Sciences. Graduate studies differ from the undergraduate experience in that each activity and requirement of the graduate program is designed to prepare students to become independent, creative practitioners of Chemistry.

The full list of courses required for a Chemistry Ph.D. at KU can be viewed on the KU Academic Catalog website .

Chemists at KU still make new materials and find new and exciting applications for these compounds, and study how chemical reactions occur. We apply this knowledge to developing compounds that fight disease, to creating cleaner and more efficient chemical processes for industry and to applying chemistry in other manners that benefit society. Striving for a Ph.D. or M.S. degree is about creating and completing an independent, original research project in the chemical sciences. For KU students, this experience becomes the foundation for their future careers in the increasingly diverse scientific enterprise.

Research in Chemistry graduate programs used to take place exclusively in the laboratory. At KU, students apply a broader definition of the term laboratory to include many other types of research environments:

• Medical facilities where researchers study the efficacy of therapeutic agents and analyze the results of clinical trials,
• Computer laboratories where the modeling of molecular structure, chemical reactions and phase changes are contributing enormously to our understanding of the complex systems around us,
• Fields and streams where environmental chemists strive to understand how chemicals derived from natural processes and human activity impact the quality and diversity of life, and
• Classrooms where individuals study strategies for improving student learning of scientific concepts.

KU Chemistry: A Multidisciplinary Experience

Chemistry is an incredibly multidisciplinary science at KU. As the tools we have developed to study molecular processes have become ever more powerful, chemists have been able to study more and more complicated systems. In our department, graduate students participate in projects including the location and function of neurotransmitters in the brain, how supercritical fluids can enhance the activity and selectivity of catalysts for chemical transformations, the details of what happens at the solid/liquid interface as materials begin to melt, how nuclear pore membrane proteins open to allow access to the genetic material in the nucleus of the cell, and how the HIV virus does such an effective job of evading detection by the human immune system. Chemical Sciences research at KU is an extremely exciting collaborative experience.

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• Doing a PhD in Chemistry

A PhD in Chemistry aims to prepare highly qualified researchers who are able to bring about new advances in the chemistry fields, including Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Nanoscience etc. In other words, the core objective of a Chemistry PhD is to train researchers to join or lead research groups in universities, independent R&D departments other public or private organisations to meet the growing demands of society.

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In-situ disposal of cementitious wastes at uk nuclear sites, capturing vibration to drive chemical change, development of fluorescent organic molecules for application in super-resolution imaging techniques, atomic layer deposition of novel nanolayer materials for solar cells, coventry university postgraduate research studentships, what does a phd in chemistry involve.

As a research student, your daily activities will largely depend on two factors: what your specific research project is and what training objectives your department sets.

In short, your daily activities will focus on advancing your project, such as designing and conducting experiments, preparing your thesis and attending conferences etc., all while achieving your training objectives. Although training objectives vary from department to department, you can expect them to include outcomes such as:

• Ability to independently devise, plan and carry out scientific research projects.
• Acquire the skills to integrate effectively into any R&D team in the chemical sciences and technologies fields.
• The ability to advise public and private institutions from a scientific and technical perspective.
• To contribute to the development of knowledge, the latest techniques and instrumentation in relation to your specific field of specialisation.
• Ability to update their scientific and technical expertise autonomously and continuously.

Since almost all doctoral degrees in chemistry are highly laboratory-based, your research will likely see you using advanced and innovative equipment. Depending on your research topic and your universities facilities, you may have to opportunity to use, for example, a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometer (NMR), Electron Spin Resonance Spectrometer (EPR), Infrared-Raman Fourier Spectrophotometer (FT-IR), Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometer (ICP) as part of your research.

Lines of Research

As with most STEM subject PhDs, the potential research themes encompassing Chemistry PhDs are numerous; a School of Chemistry may traditionally base their research around the areas of Physical and Theoretical, Organic and Biological and Materials and Inorganic Chemistry.

Academic staff at your particular institution will also have a broad range of research interests they want to pursue, and it’s common to find postgraduate research students involved in a range of projects that overlap with the other sciences.

The following list, whilst not exhaustive, should give you an idea of how many topics you could choose from as part of your doctorate:

• Physical Chemistry,
• Medicinal Chemistry,
• Theoretical Chemistry,
• Materials Chemistry,
• Environmental Chemistry,
• Structural Chemistry,
• Biological Chemistry ,
• Computational Chemistry,
• Supramolecular Chemistry,
• Organometallic Chemistry,
• Atmospheric Chemistry.

Within these topics, there will be numerous specialist areas, one of which will form the central focus of your original research project. Examples of these specialist areas are:

• Electrochemical Sensors and Biosensors,
• Liquid chromatography and electrophoresis,
• Basic and technological aspects of ceramic materials,
• Organometallic chemistry and catalysis,
• Asymmetric catalysis with metal complexes and organocatalysis,
• Organic chemistry of metal compounds,
• Synthesis of pharmacologically interesting compounds from chiral precursors,
• Distereo- and enantioselective synthesis of biologically active natural products,
• Photoactive molecules, macromolecules and nanoparticles.

How long does it take to get a PhD in Chemistry?

In the UK, a full-time doctoral student usually takes 3 years to complete their postgraduate study, while part-time study will usually take closer to 6 years.

Most Chemistry PhD students will first register as MPhil students , after which they will complete an upgrade viva after 18 months before they are officially registered as a PhD student. While your supervisor will provide mentorship, it’s ultimately the responsibility of postgraduate students to ensure their project and studies run on time and that they meet their agreed deadlines.

What are the typical entry requirements for a Chemistry PhD Programme?

Most UK universities require at least a 2:1 undergraduate masters degree or the equivalent grade from a university outside the UK. The degree must be in a field that is directly relevant or that can demonstrate your understanding of chemistry as a graduate student to the level expected of your prospective supervisor .

If English is not your first language, you will be expected to meet the English language requirements of the university where you applied to prove your proficiency. This usually means obtaining formal English language qualifications such as an IELTS, which, for research programmes, typically requires a minimum test score of 6.5 as part of your application.

How much does a Chemistry PhD cost?

As a postgraduate researcher in the UK, you should expect annual tuition fees of around £4,500 per academic year . Part-time students should expect approximately half this fee at £2,250 per academic year.

For international students, including now-EU students, the annual tuition fee is considerably higher; for example, the School of Chemistry at the University of Birmingham sets international fees at £23,580/year, equating to over £70,500 assuming your PhD project takes three years to complete.

As with every PhD degree, potential students will need to consider additional costs such as living costs and any bench fees that may be expected from their respective project or graduate school. It’s a good idea to discuss these with your potential supervisors before starting your postgraduate degree.

Funding opportunities

Several funding opportunities are available for a Chemistry PhD research project. The opportunities include:

• Government funding eg. UKRI BBSRC , EPSRC, ESRC, GATEway for research degrees.
• Industry funding eg. AstraZeneca, BP, NC3D, (UK) DSTL (USA), assuming the topic of your PhD study aligns with their research interests.
• Independent funding eg. Grants or Specialist Institutes for research projects in Chemistry or other scientific fields supporting the PhD programme.
• Research charities eg. Cancer Research, MacMillan.
• University funding eg. Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) funding in the form of scholarships/studentships which cover tuition fees and, in some cases, also provide a living allowance.

Thesis grants may also be available to assist with the costs of writing and presenting your thesis at an overseas conference or workshop. These can be awarded directly by institutions or even employers as part of a career development scheme.

What can you do with a PhD in Chemistry?

A PhD degree in Chemistry opens up a wide range of career opportunities, both within academia and industry.

Many graduates follow a career path of becoming postdoctoral researchers, then lecturers and possibly a professor of Chemistry too. Others may see their PhD projects linking with industry partners of the university, naturally leading to opportunities there. This may see graduates going on to work within the chemical engineering field, becoming materials scientists or working within environmental sciences.

With this in mind, the most common career paths after a PhD in Chemistry are:

• University Lecturer A university lecturer may teach and run courses but may also advise on undergraduate study or research, supervise students, and be involved in developing education programs.
• Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship Most chemistry PhDs go on to secure a post-doctoral position within an institution such as a university, governmental department, research charity or a Commercial Research Organisation (CRO).
• Environmental Scientist An Environmental Scientist conducts research to assess and control the impact of human activity on the environment.
• Patent Attorney A patent attorney is often employed by organisations that develop new technology. They are responsible for drafting the application for patents to protect a client’s intellectual property rights, focusing on chemical compounds, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology products.

• Cosmetic Chemist The Personal Care industry employs over 500,000 people in the UK alone and is an expanding market in the UK and global economy. The ingredients used in these products are often chemical compounds with large molecular structure, which is why they are typically developed by a chemist or chemist-biologist.
• Process Engineer (Chemical Industry) A Process Engineer works on designing chemical processes and equipment to increase efficiency and profitability for an organisation. The role requires extensive knowledge of chemical engineering practices, operating conditions, instrumentation and mathematical techniques.

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Department of Chemistry

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Johns Hopkins University was the first American institution to emphasize graduate education and to establish a PhD program in chemistry. Founding Chair Ira Remsen initiated a tradition of excellence in research and education that has continued until this day. The Hopkins graduate program is designed for students who desire a PhD in chemistry while advancing scientific knowledge for humankind.

The graduate program provides students with the background and technical expertise required to be leaders in their field and to pursue independent research.

Graduate students’ advancement is marked by entrance exams, coursework, teaching, seminars, oral examinations, and an individual research project that culminates in a thesis dissertation. The thesis research project represents an opportunity for graduate students to make a mark on the world. Working in conjunction with a faculty member or team, individually tailored thesis projects enable students to think independently about cutting-edge research areas that are of critical importance. Thesis research is the most important step toward becoming a PhD scientist, and our program provides an outstanding base with a proven track record of success.

Graduate students make up the heart of the Chemistry Department, and the department strives to support students’ individual needs. Each student is carefully advised and classes are traditionally quite small. Multidisciplinary research and course offerings that increase scientific breadth and innovation are hallmarks of the program.  In addition to academic and technical development, our department also offers several outlets for professional and social development.

For more information, contact the Director of Graduate Studies. Dr. Art Bragg Office: Remsen 221 410-516-5616 [email protected]

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• Baccalaureate degree or equivalent preparation in chemistry
• Application fee exemption deadline: December 20, 2024
• Credit hours (54): 36 hours of course work and research plus 18 dissertation hours (Chem  699R ). (With departmental approval, some credit from an MS degree may be applied toward this requirement.)
• Required courses: Chem  692R  and  594R  (multiple semesters),  601 ,  694  and other courses as required by the area of emphasis and as specified by committee.
• Semi-annual progress review, examinations, publication/s and presentations.
• Oral comprehensive qualifying proposal.
• Dissertation.
• Final oral examination consisting of two parts: (A) public presentation of original research described in the dissertation; (B) comprehensive examination on course work, research and dissertation.

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Ph.D. Degree

The Ph.D. is the highest degree in the fields of chemistry and biochemistry. The decision to pursue this degree should be based on a high aptitude for the subject and a determination to function as a professional in the field. The Ph.D. degree is essentially a license to practice independent research and/or to teach at the university level. The preparation for this degree involves significant coursework and research designed to provide both an in-depth understanding of one area of chemistry (e.g., analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic or physical) as well as exposure at an advanced level to types of chemistry outside the area of specialization. Ph.D. students are required to present seminars to develop those research and presentation skills.

However, research is easily the most important aspect of a Ph.D. program. Beginning as soon as an appropriate research group is identified (no later than the beginning of the second semester), research is what ultimately provides familiarity with the knowledge and techniques in areas of specialization. To develop expertise and insight, there is no substitute for facing and overcoming the difficulties associated with particular research goals.

When has one done enough to be worthy of a Ph.D.? Opinions vary, but typically an original significant contribution to one's field is required. This generally (and roughly) corresponds to material for two publications. Making an "original contribution" means going beyond simply doing what you are told, not recklessly but creatively. The student must take ownership of the project in the sense that he/she becomes primarily responsible for its success or failure. The student should provide significant ideas and even direction to the project(s) he/she has been entrusted with. This rarely occurs in the first year or two of graduate study, but by the third or fourth year significant creativity should begin to be evident. The best reason to pursue graduate studies in chemistry is a love for the sense of discovery this field offers.

Chemistry Graduate Requirements

Note: The requirement for a minor field of study (as described in the Graduate Catalog) does not apply to the graduate degrees in chemistry.

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School of Chemistry

Postgraduate programmes.

The School of Chemistry is an internationally recognised centre for teaching and research. The School has extensive collaborations with leading science-based industries and academic centres throughout the world. Our postgraduate degree programmes are at the cutting edge of research.

If you would like further advice about our PhD programmes, please contact the Postgraduate Administration. Email:  [email protected]

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Since May 2022 we have been ranked #1 in UK for Chemistry Research. We offer a world-class environment for your PhD or MSc research degree, with state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure as well as support and guidance from internationally leading Academic Supervisors.

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We offer opportunities in a wide range of research topics and themes, including:

• synthesis (organic and inorganic)
• computational and digital chemistry
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• atmospheric chemistry
• theoretical chemistry
• synthetic biology
• spectroscopy
• soft matter and colloids
• supramolecular chemistry
• materials for energy

We welcome applications and enquiries from candidates in the UK and Overseas for both the MSc by Research and PhD programmes which are available in these areas of the chemical sciences

We offer two types of PhD programme: firstly, Chemistry PhD by Research projects which are supervised directly by Academic Staff members; and secondly, PhDs managed by one of our Centres for Doctoral Training (CDT).    If you would like further advice about our PhD programmes, please contact the Postgraduate Administration. Email:  [email protected]

Chemistry PhD/MSc by Research

Our postgraduates make essential contributions to the School's research. In addition to conducting research and enhancing your chemistry expertise, a wide range of opportunities are also available to develop your transferable skills and employability.

Our research is organised under five themes covering a wide spectrum of chemical sciences.

Centres for Doctoral Training

The school hosts two flagship EPSRC Centres for Doctoral Training (CDT) and is involved in the NERC GW4+ Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP):

• Technology Enhanced Chemical Synthesis CDT
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These centres bring together diverse areas of expertise to train the next generation of chemical scientists with the skills, knowledge and confidence to tackle today's issues and future challenges.

Postgraduate Taught Masters

Msc scientific computing with data science.

The School of Chemistry now hosts this exciting new programme for recent graduates in a Physical or Life Science. Joining us for this 1-year taught postgraduate degree will allow you to d evelop your skills in coding, machine learning and high-performance computing and learn how to apply these to cutting-edge computational problems drawn from across the sciences.  Through project work, industrial networking and visits, you will build contacts opening up  additional job opportunities once qualified.  

For more information, please follow this link to our programme catalogue:  https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/msc-scientific-computing-with-data-science/

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PhD in Chemistry

• Updated on  
• Apr 25, 2023

If you are keen to explore the world of science that is central to the connection between natural sciences and physics, engage in extensive research and find out new avenues, then, PhD in Chemistry might suit your career aspirations. Having to engage in independent studies, broadening your skill base and engaging in experiments in the laboratory for long periods of time, in a PhD curriculum, you would study different principles of Thermodynamics, advanced levels of Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Mathematics, etc. With the knowledge of these core areas of the subject, you would understand the application of these fundamental principles to real-life practical processes. Let us take a look at the scope of pursuing a PhD in Chemistry.

This Blog Includes:

About phd in chemistry , eligibility criteria , phd in chemistry: admission process, phd in chemistry top colleges in india 2022, phd in chemistry: entrance exams, phd in chemistry: entrance exams syllabus, ph.d. in chemistry: top universities, top universities for phd in chemistry , job prospects & salary, career prospects .

PhD in Chemistry is a doctoral degree in one of the branches of Science that span over a period of 3-6 years. It is a detailed academic study and research and completes with the submission of an academic thesis on the subject that you engaged in research with. Moreover, these days there are a large number of innovative research projects that have been adopted such as the interface of Chemistry with Biology and Medicinal Sciences, Sustainable Energy, and Catalysis, amongst many others.

Moreover, the popular subjects studied over the course of your program include Computational and Theoretical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Organic Synthesis, Magnetic Resonance and Structural Chemistry, Biochemistry , Bioinformatics , Nanoscience , Biotechnology , Molecular biology , Microbiology , Genetics , Gene Expression, etc.

A PhD in Chemistry requires one to be committed to research and development and sometimes spend days at a stretch in the laboratory. Being a rigorous curriculum taught over a period of 3-6 years, a doctorate degree involves fierce training and education. Apart from these, there are a few things that one needs to pay heed to while seeking admission to this course. Some of these are: 

• Senior Secondary Certificate or its equivalent from a recognised education board. 
• A bachelor’s degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry or a related field of your specialization from an accredited institution.
• A master’s degree like MSc Chemistry , MSc Biochemistry from a recognised university.
• English Language Proficiency Test: IELTS , TOEFL or PTE score
• Proven evidence of work experience, if needed.

To get admitted into any top universities like IIsc Banglore, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Bombay, etc offering a Ph.D. chemistry, students need to sit for entrance exams. The admission process continues with a personal interview, and if they score well, they can also get a scholarship. Given below are the basic steps:

Step 1: Application – To get admission to any college for Ph.D. in Chemistry, students first have to fill out the form for the course through either online or offline mode. 

Step 2: Entrance Exams – If students are aiming to get to admission in top universities, the entrance exams are extremely necessary. 

Step 3: Results – Keep a thorough check on the exam results. After the results have been declared, the admission process will continue. 

Step 4: Interview and Enrollment – After qualifying for the exam, the university will take an interview either online or offline by calling the students to the university campus.

The table is given below listed the top-ranked colleges for Ph.D. in Chemistry in India with their NIRF rankings: 

Some universities have their own exams like Lovely Professional Universities has LPUNEST and the main national level exams conducted for this course are the UGC – NET, and GATE. There is also CUCET which is the common entrance for central universities.

The syllabus of the entrance exam of this course depends upon three main topics: 

Enlisted are the best universities to pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry with their corresponding areas of specialization: 

Access to the top of the range research equipment and facilities like X-ray diffractometers, scanning tunnelling microscopes, electron microscopes, mass spectrometers, and high-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometers, the best universities around the world have a lot to offer. Which is why we have curated a list of renowned universities around the world taking into consideration the t op 5 countries to study Chemistry that might be perfect for you.

• California Institute of Technology
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Princeton University
• Harvard University
• Yale University
• University of Glasgow  
• John Hopkins University  
• University of Kent  
• McGill University  
• University of Cambridge  
• University of California, Berkeley  
• University of York  
• University of Essex  
• University of Montreal  
• The University of Edinburgh  
• The University of Manchester 
• Cornell University  

Read on to find out the below-mentioned job options with the respective average salaries after pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemistry: 

• Research Scientist – Ranges around INR 8.7 lakhs
• Principal Scientist – Ranges around INR 20 lakhs
• Assistant General Manager – Ranges around INR 20 lakhs
• Business Consultant – Ranges around INR 30 lakhs
• High School Principal – Ranges around INR 4.7 lakhs

Progressing into the branch of Chemistry would allow you to explore multifarious opportunities that would refine your skills and make a good living. Working with different chemical research centres, industries such as plastic and polymer factories, forensic labs, food packaging and processing firms along with the beverage and liquor industries hire chemists at a large scale. You may also make a career in Medicinal Chemistry and work towards finding new cures and medical testing and manufacturing. You can consider the following profiles after pursuing a PhD in Chemistry:

• Scientist 
• Medical Technologist 
• Research Instructor 
• Professor 
• Material Science
• Pharma Assistant
• Agricultural Chemist
• Clinical Research Specialist
• Medical Technologist
• Radiologist
• Toxicologist 
• Food and Flavor Chemist
• Water Quality Chemist
• Production Chemist
• Product Officer
• Research & Development Manager
• Scientific Data Entry Specialist
• Safety Health and Environment Specialist
• Quality Controller

If you are doing this course from a reputed institute, Ph.D. can usually take up to 6 years to complete or even less than that, i.e, 3 years. 

Overall consideration takes place like, admission process, student’s score in the entrance exams, and the universities offering scholarships based on the student’s merit. 

There is no best in this case but yes IIT Guwahati has one of the best chemistry departments among the IITs. It has all the facilities and there are around 42 professors so you get many options to do research under them.

With a PhD in Chemistry, you can get a postdoctoral position where you continue to research. Many individuals decide that academia is not for them and use their teaching, financial sector, or trading skills. If you have any inhibitions in finding a path to your career aspirations, Leverage Edu can guide you towards it and boost your career. 

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Thanks for reading. Related topics: MSc Applied Chemistry MSc Organic Chemistry What is Analytical Chemistry?

PhD in computational and theoretical chemistry

Hi Isaboke! If you want to study PhD in Computational and Theoretical Chemistry in UK, Canada or USA then please connect with our experts on 1800 572 000!

Can I do PhD in physical chemistry

Hi Prabhat, Yes sure, you can do PhD in any discipline that excites you provided your portfolio and eligibility criteria matches for that particular discipline. You can get in touch with our counsellors at 1800572000 and they will help you out to kickstart your PhD journey in 20222!

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Harrisburg University’s Charles Brumlik, PhD, Named a 2024 Fellow by the American Chemical Society (ACS)

Newswise — HARRISBURG, PA – The American Chemical Society (ACS) has added 37 new names to its roster of ACS Fellows in 2024, including Charles Brumlik, PhD , corporate faculty and instructor in the Master of Science in Biotechnology program at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU). In addition to his corporate faculty role at HU, Dr. Brumlik is the Managing Director for Nanobiz LLC , an international consulting firm focused on rapid product development in aerospace, biomedical, chemical, electronics, energy, food and beverage manufacturing, oil and gas, telecommunications, and other fields. 

With more than 155,000 members, the American Chemical Society is one of the largest scientific organizations in the world. Only 30 to 50 members are selected to be named as ACS Fellows each year. According to the American Chemical Society, the ACS Fellows program was “created by the ACS Board of Directors in December 2008 to recognize members of the ACS for outstanding achievements in and contributions to science, the profession, and the Society.”

“I am extremely grateful for being named a Fellow of the American Chemical Society and for being awarded this distinction,” said Dr. Brumlik. “It’s an honor to be recognized for my decades of volunteer work helping STEM students to explore industrial careers and to move from school to their first job. This also includes over a decade of leading the Chemical Marketing and Economics Group of the ACS.”

Dr. Brumlik was nominated by ACS Fellow, Ping Furlan, and Doctors Sam Brauer and Robert P. Nolan. For Contributions to Science and the Profession, the nomination recognizes Dr. Brumlik’s “outstanding expertise in nanomaterials applications and commercialization; leadership at the intersection of science, intellectual property, and business; and mentoring hundreds of scientists to help solve humanity’s big challenges.” For Contributions to the ACS Community, Dr. Brumlik is cited for “outstanding ACS National and New York Local Section programs, including NASA symposiums and Leadership Awards; and a tireless commitment to mentoring early-career scientists in their first jobs.”

The nomination also notes: “Over the last 20 years, [Dr. Brumlik has] helped numerous high school, college, and graduate students to explore science and global business. With the ACS, CME Group, Nanobiz, Nanobiz India, and partner organizations, in addition to mentoring, Dr. Brumlik has helped young scientists to interact with professionals from the US, Canada, Europe, India, and Japan.”

Presently, Dr. Brumlik teaches biochemistry to graduate students at HU and lectures internationally to young scientists at companies and organizations such as Infosys, KPIT Cummins, Honeywell, Phillips, Reliance Industries, Bombay Textile Institute, and dozens of others. Dr. Brumlik also works with young STEM-focused adults on the autistic spectrum to support their rights of self-determination and respect, and has created patented visual aids for therapists. 

The nomination is exhaustive in celebrating Dr. Brumlik’s many years of innovative research work, tireless mentorship, community advocacy, and unique contributions to organizations and events focused on building strong academia-industry ties. Above all, Dr. Brumlik’s career has centered on empowering young people – especially underserved populations – to pursue their dreams of landing valuable jobs in science and technology fields.

“As a longtime instructor in the various legal aspects of biotechnology and life science, I think very highly of Harrisburg University’s MS in Biotechnology program. It offers a unique curriculum that brings practical industry perspectives into the classroom. It upholds the HU tradition of linking the campus experience with seamless career preparation, meaning students usually get right to work in their field with employers of first choice. It’s an exciting time to study biotechnology and its applications, and this is one of the most exciting places to do it.”

Harrisburg University thanks Dr. Brumlik for serving our institution with distinction, and for advancing the cause of scientific literacy across the country and our world. We look forward to seeing where this next chapter takes you.

ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY 

Harrisburg University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a private, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and graduate degree programs in the fields of science, technology, and mathematics. For additional information about the University's affordable, demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, please call 717.901.5146 or email [email protected] . Stay updated by following Harrisburg University on X , LinkedIn , Instagram , and Facebook .

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