phd in green chemistry

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Applying for college or graduate school? Find out which schools have green chemistry and green engineering programs.

United States

University of Alabama; Center for Green Manufacturing Research center focused on ionic liquids, biorenewables, novel separation strategies and more.

Hendrix College; Toad Suck Institute for Green Organic Chemistry Green chemistry incorporated into bachelor's curriculum

University of California, Berkeley; The Berkeley Center for Green Chemistry Innovative courses for chemistry and engineering majors and nonmajors, green labs, and applied research

California Institute of Technology Courses focusing on global environmental issues and solutions and biocatalysis research

Colorado School of Mines Green chemistry incorporated into bachelor's curriculum

Connecticut

Yale University; Center for Green Chemistry & Green Engineering Courses in green engineering and chemistry; research in greener materials, energy, water, systems, and metrics

District of Columbia

George Washington University's Master of Science in Environmental and Green Chemistry   Emphasizes both environmental chemistry and green chemistry, the design of new chemicals and chemical processes with minimal environmental impact

University of Florida - Gainesville Green chemistry in organic labs and research opportunities including biopolymers and catalysts

Georgia Institute of Technology Interdisciplinary approach, courses at undergraduate and graduate level, and research opportunities

Northwestern University Offers a BS in Environmental Engineering and a Certificate in Energy and Sustainability

University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign Offers Environmental Chemistry-focused undergraduate curriculum

Indiana Univeristy - Bloomington Graduate courses in green chemistry, toxicology, risk assessment; Master's in Environmental Chemistry

Indiana University – Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health Masters of Science in Product Stewardship

Iowa State University Green chemistry research including biorefinery

Western Kentucky University Research areas in green chemistry and biocatalysis

Washington College Green chemistry courses, curriculum, and senior research for undergraduates 

University of Maryland   Research areas in environmental chemistry. 

Massachusetts

Bridgewater State College Offers green chemistry courses, labs, research, and a BS with Environmental Chemistry concentration

Gordon College Green chemistry incorporated into bachelor's curriculum and lecture series

University of Massachusetts, Boston; Center for Green Chemistry Offers a PhD in Green Chemistry; Research in chemical fate, renewable energy, benign synthesis, and more

University of Massachusetts, Lowell Offers a PhD in Green Chemistry

Warner Babcock Institute for Green Chemistry Offers professional training in green chemistry for scientists and engineers (non-academic)

Grand Valley State University Undergraduate courses in green chemistry; Offers a Certificate in Green Chemistry

Lawrence Technological University BS in Environmental Chemistry; Engineering courses on biofuels and fuel cells

Michigan State University Undergraduate courses in green chemistry and research in greener organic synthesis and green catalytic pathways

University of Michigan - Flint Offers a Bachelor of Science in Green Chemistry degree

St. Olaf College Green chemistry incorporated into bachelor's curriculum

University of Minnesota Green chemistry research across a range of areas.

Center for Sustainable Polymers Environmental focus and research in synthetic polymers, renewable materials, and bio-inspired oxidation catalysts

Washington University Offers an undergraduate Certificate in Renewable Energy and the Environment

Stony Brook University Research areas in bio-inspired catalysis, green nanostructure synthesis, and sustainable materials

North Carolina

North Carolina State University Undergraduate research in green chemistry; Offers a Master's in Biomanufacturing

Ohio State University ;  OBIC Bioproducts Innovation Center Graduate courses in environmental chemistry; Research in biobased polymers

University of Toledo; School of Green Chemistry and Engineering Courses in green chemistry, engineering and biofuels; MS and BS with minor in green chemistry and engineering

Oregon State University   Center for Sustainable Materials Chemistry BS in Environmental Chemistry; Research in thin films, water-based chemistry, solar, and scaling

University of Oregon Green chemistry lab, multidisciplinary courses; Research in green nanomaterials, photoactive materials, and more

Pennsylvania

Carnegie Mellon University; Institute for Green Science Classes and research center focused on sustainable chemistry

Chatham Univeristy MS in Green Chemistry; Chemists learn entrepreneurial skills

University of Pittsburg ;  Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation Green chemistry and engineering courses; Offers Sustainable Engineering Certificate

University of Scranton Green chemistry incorporated into curriculum; Offers a BS with concentration in green chemistry

Widener University BS degree in Green Chemistry

Puerto Rico

University of Puerto Rico - Rio Piedras Research includes biocatalysts and environmental analytical chemistry

South Dakota

South Dakota State University Research in supercritical fluids, analytical separations, bioprocessing, and green chemistry education

Texas A&M University

Research includes green chemistry and sustainability, organometallic chemistry, catalysis, organic synthesis, stereochemistry and polymer chemistry.

Virginia Tech ;  Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology Research includes LCA, ecotoxicology, nanobiosensors; Offers a PhD in Sustainable Nanotechnology

University of Washington One year, online professional certificate program in Green Chemistry and Chemical Stewardship 

International

Monash University Green chemistry is part of the bachelor's and master's degrees; Offers a PhD with focus in green chemistry

The University of Queensland; Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology Research in inorganic green chemistry, green nano, biopolymers, clean tech, process intensification

University of Sydney Research in biorenewable chemicals, earth abundant materials; Offers PhD in Green Chemistry

Queen's University Courses in green chemistry; Research in green materials, manufacturing, solvents; Offers Environmental Chemistry focus

McGill University: Chemistry Department Green chemistry courses; Research in biocatalysts, alternative solvents, photocatalytic reactions

McGill University: Desautels Faculty of Management, Integrated Management Interdisciplinary communication of sustainability and green chemistry in the business program

Memorial University of Newfoundland Research in chemicals from renewable freedstocks, non-precious metal catalysis, biodegradable polymer synthesis

Lanzhou Institute for Chemical Physics Research in green chemistry and energy chemistry, with particular attention to sustainable development

Center for Green Chemistry and Catalysis (CGCC), LICP, CAS Research in green catalysis, biological catalysts, ionic liquids

University of Copenhagen Offers a MSc in Chemistry with a Green and Sustainable Chemistry focus

European Union

The European Doctoral Programme on Sustainable Industrial Chemistry Multi-institution partnership offering doctoral programs in sustainable industrial chemistry

University of Strasbourg Offers a MSc in Chemistry with a specialization in Green Chemistry

Univeristy of Leuphana Offers a MSc in Sustainable Chemistry

University of Patras Offers a MSc in Green Chemistry and Clean Technologies

University of Hong Kong Research in green oxidation and materials; PhD with research focus in catalysis

Interuniversity Consortium "Chemistry for the Environment" A network of academic research chemists working in green chemistry and environmental protection

University of Venice (Università Ca' Foscari Venezia) Offers a MSc double degree in Environmental and Sustainable Chemical Technologies

University of Padua (Università di Padova ) Sustainable Chemistry and Technologies for Circular Economy Masters program

Netherlands

Delft University of Technology: Biocatalysis and Organic Chemistry Research in the fundamentals of enzymes and their application in industry.

Portugese Science and Technology Foundation Offers a PhD in Sustainable Chemistry hosted at Aveiro, NOVA Lisbon and Porto

National University of Singapore; Environmental Research Institute Offers a Green Chemistry and Sustainable Energy research track

Green Chemistry Network of Spain (REDQS) Interuniversity postgraduate green chemistry programs

Institute of Science and Technology (IUCT) Research institution affiliated with the Green Chemistry Institute of Spain and annual green chemistry conferences

Universidad Complutense de Madrid Research in organic, medicinal, biocatalysis and biotransformations

Universidad Zaragoza Courses in catalysis, toxicology, and solvents; Offers Master's in Green Chemistry

Chalmers University of Technology / University of Gothenburg; Centre for Environment and Sustainability, GMV Research in fuel cells, green electricity, combustion of biomass, and CO 2  capture

Lund University Course in green chemistry and biotechnology; Research in biocatalysts and biorenewable speciality chemicals

Switzerland

Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne Courses include in chemical processes for renewable energy; Research in catalysis for energy and environment

United Kingdom

Durham University; Centre for Sustainable Chemical Processes Courses and seminars include green chemistry catalysts, sustainable materials; Wide variety of research areas

Imperial College London Offers MRes in Green Chemistry: Energy and the Environment

Queen's University Ionic Liquid Laboratories (QUILL) Research in ionic liquids and alternative solvents

University of Bath: Centre for Sustainable & Circular Technologies Diverse research areas; Offers MRes in Sustainable Chemical Technologies

University of Leicester: Green Chemistry Research Research in sustainable synthesis and catalysis; MSc in Chemical Research - Green Chemistry

University of Nottingham: The Centre for Sustainable Chemistry Green chemistry research areas; Offers MSc in Green and Sustainable Chemistry

University of Oxford Graduate courses and research in sustainable energy chemistry; Oxford Catalysis Network

University of York; Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence Research in renewable materials, clean synthesis, platform molecules; Offers masters,PhD and professional ed.

ACS GCI's Green Chemistry and Engineering Conference

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Environmental Chemistry Degree

Jump to section.

• Why Environmental Chemistry?
• Job Prospects
• Specialties of Environmental Chemistry
• Environmental Chemistry Degrees

Education Costs

• Accreditation
• Search For Schools

Why an Environmental Chemistry Degree?

Environmental Chemistry is a multifaceted field that focuses on the chemical processes, their impacts, the cycling and motility influencing the composition and chemical makeup of air, water and soils. The field of Environmental Chemistry has been evolving for years, especially since we became aware of the damage being done to the environment through chemical production and disposal, the usage of fertilizers and pesticides, fuel development and transport, and other major industrial advances. The field truly deals with chemistry in the environment, and the natural phenomena that may transport them or affect their retention, mobility, or alteration such as ground water contamination, acid rain, ozone depletion, and ocean acidification. Environmental chemistry also deals with processes that affect the bioavailability of pollutants and toxicity in the natural ecosystems.

Similar to other Environmental Science programs, Environmental Chemistry may be a “new” major at a school, it may be a dual major program in Chemistry and Environmental Science, or it may have another title, such as Atmospheric Chemistry, Marine Chemistry, or Geochemistry, to name a few. Typical coursework includes both advanced chemistry classes as well as other environmental specialty classes. Generally a student takes enough chemistry classes to earn a major in chemistry independently of other sciences, then additional courses. This other coursework depends on what your specialty is, whether remediation, biochemistry, geochemistry, marine chemistry, etc.

Job Prospects with a Degree in Environmental Chemistry

Your career in Environmental Chemistry can be working for the government at a local, state, or federal level, within private industry, in a classroom instructing, as an environmental consultant, or any other numerous areas. Environmental Chemists working for the government may be based anywhere from Alaska to Antarctica. Their careers will be spent working with either natural or anthropogenic chemical processes. They may specialize in aquatic chemistry or sediment chemistry, these closely related fields often lead to careers with The Army Corp of Engineers, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Park Service, and many other agencies. Private contractors may use their services in a variety of ways as well; in the laboratory, designing field work, or compiling and interpreting research results.

Learn how to become an environmental chemist .

Common Divisions/Specialties within Environmental Chemistry

• Atmospheric Chemistry
• Environmental Remediation
• Marine Chemistry
• Petrochemistry
• Sustainable Agriculture

Environmental Chemistry Degrees and Overviews

Bachelor's degrees in environmental chemistry, requirements.

Most schools require a letter of intent, SAT scores, letters of recommendation, a small application fee, and high school transcripts.

Like other sciences, Environmental Chemistry requires a certain level of math, physics, and some general education requirements. Often enough chemistry is taken to complete a major in chemistry, and the rest of the required classes will be from carefully designated environmental disciplines.

Undergraduate environmental chemistry degrees lend themselves towards working in laboratory environments well. Technicians are needed that can run samples, maintain or repair equipment, and produce quality results. Careers in sales or in the field in other ways may also be available. Companies looking for loyal employees may handpick undergraduate Environmental Chemistry majors, and then send them back to school as they recognize the individual's need to grow. This can lead to staff beginning with a starting degree and ending up with a Master's or PhD and leading others. Government agencies and the military are also likely to hire graduates with a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Chemistry.

School Spotlight

Colorado School of Mines The Colorado School of Mines - Chemistry & Geochemistry department offers a degree with an “ Environmental Geochemistry Track ”. Their Bachelor's of Science program includes over 130 credits. They have laboratories equipped with numerous state-of-the-art research instruments so students have access to equipment many students need to wait to use until graduate school. University of Illinois The University of Illinois' Chemistry Department offers an Environmental Chemistry Option that allows a graduate to be certified with the American Chemical Society (ACS) in environmental chemistry. Classes in Green Chemistry, Environmental Toxicology, and Environmental Geology are among the course offerings beyond Chemistry classes. A Chemistry student may also pursue a minor in Environmental Studies, if they want to take more than the required classes for the Environmental Chemistry option.

Master's Degrees in Environmental Chemistry

A Master's degree is often necessary to become a supervisor or project manager for many specialties in Environmental Chemistry. It may be a step on the way to a Doctorate degree, or it may be the highest degree someone desires to earn. A Master's distinguishes a student from a Bachelor's degree by proving that they are capable of independent research to at least the degree necessary to complete their thesis.

Most schools require a letter of intent, GRE scores, letter(s) of recommendation, a small application fee, and transcripts. There may be certain science and math requirements beyond just the scope of certain Bachelor's degrees. There are often more opportunities for funding if a student chooses to help their advisor in research. Most schools will require the approval of a particular faculty member before acceptance to a program.

Master's degrees may be either mostly coursework or a combination of research and classroom efforts. Classes will generally include a range of offerings at the environmental level, but will vary with faculty and school specialties.

Students pursuing a Master's degree in Environmental Chemistry should be able to look forward to lucrative careers in laboratory management, independent consulting, or as staff working on field projects in remote places. They may be able to pursue teaching at the elementary or secondary levels.

UC Davis The University of California at Davis has an Agriculture and Environmental Chemistry Graduate Group. More than 55 faculty and over 50 graduate students are in the group. Students can choose to specialize in one of four areas: environmental chemistry, biological & toxicological chemistry, analytical chemistry, and food, fiber & polymer chemistry. Students are required to take placement exams in core chemistry disciplines upon arrival at the school, especially if they want to act as a teaching assistant (TA). University of Maryland University of Maryland - The Marine Estuarine Environmental Science program within the University offers an Area of Specialization in Environmental Chemistry. Students entering the program must have two semesters of calculus, physics, general chemistry, biology, and advanced chemistry. Students can use facilities and modern instrumentation at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory to complete their research.

Ph.D. Degrees in Environmental Chemistry

PhDs may be for those who wish to enhance their realm of expertise or change their working concentration. They may have earned a Master's degree in another subject, such as Ecology, and want to take a practical approach to applying it. Environmental Chemistry often has an appeal to students who began in a life science and realized through experience that there is a great deal of practical work done under the umbrella of chemistry.

Either a Bachelor's or Master's degree is generally required before acceptance, with core math and science courses completed. They may also require the usual items for an application; three letters of recommendation, small fee to apply, GREs, transcripts, and a well written letter of intent. Most require a faculty member to agree to be your advisor before entrance as well.

Much of a PhD program is practical work. There is coursework, especially if a student doesn't have a Master's before entry. A researched thesis is generally required, as well as testing by department members. Usually this is a two step process; a student may be a PhD student, but not eligible to receive a degree until they have passed qualifying exams.

PhDs in Environmental Chemistry have the ability to be supervisors, or leaders in their firms. They may go on to teach in university settings, or gain promotions within their own agencies. They may be even more competitive as independent contractors. They should be able to apply their intricate knowledge of the movement and cycling of chemical compounds in the environment at the highest levels.

School Spotlights

Florida International University Florida International University's Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers a PhD with a track in Environmental Chemistry. Choosing this major allows you to work with faculty in Environmental Sciences as well as Chemistry. A few of the core courses offered are classes in Atmospheric Chemistry, Aquatic Chemistry, Environmental Organic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Oceanography, and Environmental Chemistry of Trace Elements. University of Alaska Fairbanks University of Alaska Fairbanks offers a doctorate degree in Environmental Chemistry. When looking through the faculty page , it is clear that many are professors in Chemistry, as well as quite a few in the fields of marine sciences, atmospheric sciences, microbiology, and geochemistry. The University has designed its program to ensure that there is core training in analytical, physical, organic and inorganic chemistry in order to gain an understanding of how these disciplines apply to the complex environmental systems in the real world.

Your Career after Graduation in Environmental Chemistry

Environmental chemists can lead truly exciting careers studying many aspects of the natural and chemical world. Whether they are researching Arctic frost decline for the National Science Foundation, working on global issues for the National Institute of Standards and Measurements, or working on alternative or traditional energy sources, environmental chemists are well educated in both chemistry and ecological principles. A slight change in career path after graduation could lead to researching compounds derived from various corners of the world for the pharmaceutical industry. Graduates in Environmental Chemistry may be working to solve pollution issues, help with environmental remediation efforts, or work within sustainable and ecologically friendly agriculture. A few other professions that may be grouped under Environmental Chemistry are meteorologist, aquarium specialist, petro-chemist, or chemical oceanographer.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, the median pay for Chemists and Materials Scientists was $80,680/yr, Geoscientists earned $93,580/yr, Biochemists and Biophysicists earned $94,270, and Environmental Scientists earned $73,230. Due to being somewhat of a cross-over field between physical and life sciences, Environmental Chemists can also be great educators. Your degree level helps determine your teaching eligibility. In order to teach at the college or university level, a PhD is either required or recommended.

2020 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Environmental Scientists and Specialists , Chemists and Materials Scientists, Geoscientists and Biochemists and Biophysicists reflect national data not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2021.

Schools vary largely in costs, and residency makes a difference as well. Colorado School of Mines, one of the schools covered for an undergraduate degree in Environmental Chemistry costs approximately $31,500/ year for an in-state resident and nearly $50,000 for an out-of-state resident for the year. This figure includes room and board and other costs. When comparing multiple schools, make sure you are comparing them the same way, one may list tuition only, or by semester only, and come across as less expensive. Scholarships may be available for all degree programs, and research assistantships may be available in upper level programs. In general, Bachelor's will take 4-5 years, Master's will take 2-3, and PhDs will take 2-3 (or skipping a Master's will take 5-6). Check with other students, if possible, on average length students attend because some schools and programs, and specific faculty, can be notorious for keeping students longer to get more work from them. A Master's degree shouldn't take 5 years of school! Also look closely at the costs of your chosen school. It may be worth establishing residency before enrolling in order to lower your expenses.

Importance of Accreditation

Schools that allow you to be a member of the American Chemical Society (ACS), or are part of a certified program can help jump start your career. Making sure you attend a school that is accredited is imperative if you would like to transfer your credits someday. It is also important as it can go a long way in the image of the school and program for future employers. You should be able to find out if your potential school is accredited on their website. Any questions about ACS could be addressed to the Chemistry, or Environmental Sciences departments.

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• University of Wisconsin-Madison

DEGREE Environmental Chemistry and Technology, PhD

Doctoral degree in environmental chemistry and technology

As a PhD student in environmental chemistry and technology, you’ll deepen your expertise in applying chemistry to environmental systems. And, by selecting a specialization and choosing elective courses, you also can tailor your graduate program to your own interests. Among the areas you can focus on are aquatic chemistry, air pollution chemistry, terrestrial chemistry, and chemical- and bio-technology development.

At a glance

Civil and environmental engineering department, learn more about what information you need to apply., how to apply.

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online .

Students seeking admission should have a background in the fundamental areas of general, organic, physical, and analytical chemistry. In addition, students should have some background in applied sciences which can be fulfilled with a minimum of 6 credits in natural sciences such as botany, zoology, bacteriology, earth science, material science, biochemistry, or engineering. Students who have not met these requirements must do so prior to the completion of the master’s degree. 

The application deadline is December 15 for the fall term. Late applications may not be reviewed for funding opportunities.

Required materials

• All applicants must use the UW–Madison Graduate School online application system. 
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose.
• Please send TOEFL/IELTS scores electronically to UW–Madison, institution code 1846.
• All items should be submitted through the online application. Please do not mail or e-mail materials directly to our program at the time of application. If you are admitted to our program, we will request an official copy of your transcript at that time.
• All applicants must use the UW–Madison Graduate School online application system.
• Please send GRE and TOEFL scores electronically to UW–Madison, institution code 1846.

Tuition and funding

Tuition and segregated fee rates are always listed per semester (not for Fall and Spring combined).

View tuition rates

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid.  Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Students accepted into the program can expect to be fully funded through through fellowships, teaching assistantships, or research assistantships on research projects. Admission decisions are based on the student’s qualifications and research interests, the availability of funding, and the focus of funded research projects. Funding includes a waiver of tuition (excluding segregated fees), health benefits (including family coverage), and a yearly stipend.

Civil and environmental engineers are changing the world. Aging infrastructure. Climate change. Clean water and air. Natural hazards. Energy. These are just a few of the grand challenges facing civil and environmental engineers, and our research is leading the way toward sustainable solutions.

View our research

Curricular Requirements

Minimum graduate school requirements.

Review the Graduate School minimum  academic progress and degree requirements , in addition to the program requirements listed below.

Required Courses

Students are required to develop a plan of courses with their advisor.

All incoming EC&T students should have basic preparation in the fundamental areas of general, organic, physical and analytical chemistry. Students should also have previous coursework in the natural sciences, which can include botany, bacteriology, zoology, earth science, material science, biochemistry or engineering. Note that CIV ENGR 500 Water Chemistry or equivalent advanced course in Environmental Chemistry, is a prerequisite for many of the core EC&T courses. If these requirements have not been met prior to entering the program, this should be considered when planning the coursework.

Students must enroll in CIV ENGR 909 Graduate Seminar – Environmental Chemistry & Technology  or CIV ENGR/​ATM OCN/​BOTANY/​ENVIR ST/​GEOSCI/​ZOOLOGY  911 Limnology and Marine Science Seminar each semester. Ph.D. students should present a seminar once per academic year, either fall or spring semester.

Graduate-Level Chemistry Requirement

Students must take two chemistry courses numbered 500 or above. A partial list of potential courses is included below. Other courses may be substituted for this requirement with approval of the student’s academic advisor and the approval of the EC&T Academic Planning Committee.

Course options

Admissions [email protected] 3182 Mechanical Engineering Building, 1513 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706

Matt Ginder-Vogel, Director of Graduate Studies [email protected] 2205 Engineering Hall, 1415 Engineering Drive Madison, WI 53706

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UMass Boston

• Chemistry PhD

Pursue the highest level of academic achievement in chemistry and become an accomplished scientist.

UMass Boston's Chemistry Department offers a comprehensive Doctor of Philosophy degree, dedicated to cultivating creative and conscientious scientists. The department offers educational opportunities in six doctoral tracks: Biological Chemistry, Chemistry Education Research, Green Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physical/Analytical Chemistry, with a special emphasis on interdisciplinary research. Students immerse themselves in research labs early in the program and tailor their academic plan in accordance with their research interests.

Students are required to complete 60 credits of coursework, consisting of two core courses, three elective courses, a graduate seminar course and a dissertation research course. The set of core courses is dictated by the student’s track. In addition, the department’s emphasis on Green Chemistry permeates the curricula of all of its doctoral tracks. Our PhD program culminates in a public defense of the student’s research and the publication of the dissertation.

The specialty of the Department is in the field of Green Chemistry, and we are proud to be the first school in the country to offer a doctoral degree via the PhD in Chemistry/Green Chemistry Track. It focuses specifically on preparing chemistry doctoral students to direct, design, and implement chemical research using strategies that reduce or eliminate the impact on human health or the environment. It provides experiences, tools, and skills needed for conducting research in a more environmentally sustainable fashion. The strength of the green chemistry curriculum lies in its overlapping interdisciplinary themes of research. Our faculty is committed to research designed to benefit society, and this emphasis is reflected in our course selections at all levels of education.

Start Your Application

Chemistry PhD (Biological Track)

Students in the Biological Chemistry PhD track are required to take one core course, two core biological chemistry track courses, three elective courses, and at least six credits of Graduate Seminar and twenty credits of dissertation research. Of the three elective courses, one must be in the Chemistry Department, whereas up to two can be from other departments upon approval from the student's dissertation committee.

View the Curriculum

Chemistry PhD (Chemistry Education Research Track)

Students in the Chemistry Education PhD track are required to take one core course, two core chemistry education track courses, three elective courses, and at least six credits of Graduate Seminar and twenty credits of dissertation research. Of the three elective courses, one must be in the Chemistry Department, whereas up to two can be from other departments upon approval from the student's dissertation committee.

Chemistry PhD (Green Track)

The Green Chemistry Track in the Chemistry PhD Program is the first such program in the world. Students obtaining a degree from this program will be prepared for conventional chemistry jobs in industry, government, and academia. In addition to traditional training in the chemical sciences, required and elective courses in the Biology Department and School for the Environment provide graduates with the tools and experience to assess human impact on health and the environment.

Green chemistry involves an ecologically sustainable view of chemical research, development, and manufacture. Toxicological understanding and environmental fate are necessary components to understanding the entire "molecular life cycle" of any commercial endeavor.

Typically, universities and academic departments lack the appropriate personnel and facilities to pursue a program of this kind. The unique complement of Chemistry, the School for the Environment, and Biology Department faculty has allowed the University of Massachusetts Boston to create such a program.

Chemistry PhD (Inorganic Track)

Students in the Inorganic Chemistry PhD track are required to take one core course, two core inorganic chemistry track courses, three elective courses, and at least six credits of Graduate Seminar and twenty credits of dissertation research. Of the three elective courses, one must be in the Chemistry Department, whereas up to two can be from other departments upon approval from the student's dissertation committee.

Chemistry PhD (Organic Track)

Students in the Organic Chemistry PhD track are required to take one core course, two core organic chemistry track courses, three elective courses, and at least six credits of Graduate Seminar and twenty credits of dissertation research. Of the three elective courses, one must be in the Chemistry Department, whereas up to two can be from other departments upon approval from the student's dissertation committee.

Chemistry PhD (Physical/Analytical Track)

Students in the Physical/Analytical Chemistry PhD track are required to take one core course, two core physical/analytical chemistry track courses, three elective courses, and at least six credits of Graduate Seminar and twenty credits of dissertation research. Of the three elective courses, one must be in the Chemistry Department, whereas up to two can be from other departments upon approval from the student's dissertation committee.

Plan Your Education

How to apply.

Applicants must meet general graduate admission requirements in addition to the following program-specific requirements:

• Test Scores: GRE recommended
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose

Deadlines & Cost

Deadlines: January 15 (priority deadline) or June 1 (final deadline, if space available) for fall, October 1 (priority deadline) or November 1 (final deadline, if space available) for spring

Application Fee: The nonrefundable application fee is $75. UMass Boston alumni and current students that plan to complete degree requirements prior to graduate enrollment can submit the application without paying the application fee.

Program Cost Information: Bursar's website

Curriculum - Biological Track

Coursework  (complete 60 credits.), core course in chemistry phd for all tracks (choose one.).

CHEM 631 – Chemical Toxicology CHEM 671 – Introduction to Green Chemistry

CORE COURSES IN BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY TRACK (Choose two from list.)

CHEM 658 – Medicinal Chemistry CHEM 680 – Physical Biochemistry CHEM 681 – Medical Biochemistry

ELECTIVE COURSES  (Choose three from list.)

CHEM 601 – Thermodynamics and Kinetics CHEM 602 – Quantum Mechanics CHEM 611 – Organometallic Catalysis CHEM 612 – Physical Inorganic Chemistry CHEM 621 – Synthetic Organic Chemistry CHEM 622 – Physical Organic Chemistry CHEM 631 – Chemical Toxicology CHEM 641 – Chemistry and Biochemistry Education Research CHEM 651 – Spectroscopic Identification of Organic Compounds CHEM 654 – Biological Chemistry CHEM 658 – Medicinal Chemistry CHEM 661 – Analytical Instrumentation CHEM 662 – Applied Chemometrics CHEM 666 – Electrochemistry CHEM 671 – Introduction to Green Chemistry CHEM 680 – Physical Biochemistry CHEM 681 – Medical Biochemistry CHEM 687 – Topics in Chemistry CHEM 688 – Topics in Physical Chemistry CHEM 689 – Topics in Organic Chemistry CHEM 690 – Topics in Inorganic Chemistry CHEM 696 – Independent Study CHEM 697 – Special Topics in Chemistry

EXTRA-DEPARTMENTAL ELECTIVES

Students may choose electives from external departments if they are relevant to their course of study and research. Students choose courses with the permission of the advisor and Graduate Program Director.

Biology Department

BIOL 614 – Advanced Cell Chemistry BIOL 678 – Protein Chemistry and Enzymology BIOL 679 – Protein Chemistry and Enzymology Lecture BIOL 685 – Biomedical Tracers

Physics Department

PHYSIC 601 – Electronic Instrumentation II: Digital PHYSIC 612 – Electromagnetic Theory PHYSIC 632 – Advanced Laser Optics (with lab) PHYSIC 609 – Physics of Medical Imaging PHYSIC 615 – Solid State Physics PHYSIC 621 – Physics of Semiconductor Materials

School for the Environment

EEOS 611 – Applied Statistics EEOS 640 – The Chemistry of Natural Waters EEOS 710 – Environmental Biogeochemistry EEOS 715 – Isotope Geochemistry

SEMINAR COURSES (Minimum of 6 credits)

CHEM 691 – Seminar I (fall) CHEM 692 – Seminar II (spring)

DISSERTATION RESEARCH (Complete 20 credits.)

CHEM 899 – Dissertation Research

Curriculum - Chemistry Education Research Track

Coursework (complete 60 credits.), core course in chemistry phd for all tracks (choose one.), core courses in chemistry education research track (three courses.).

CHEM 641 – Chemistry and Biochemistry Education Research

At least two courses selected from the following three options: * Quantitative Methods: EEOS 611 (Applied Statistics) or BIOL 607 (Computational Data Analysis for Biology) * Qualitative Methods: HIGHED 752 (Research Methods in Higher Education: Qualitative Analysis) or PSYCLN 775 (Qualitative Methods in Clinical Psychology) * Cognition: PSYDBS 762 (Knowledge Acquisition) or PSYDBS 620 (Cognitive Neuroscience)

ELECTIVE COURSES (Choose two from list.)

CHEM 601 – Thermodynamics and Kinetics CHEM 602 – Quantum Mechanics CHEM 611 – Organometallic Catalysis CHEM 612 – Physical Inorganic Chemistry CHEM 621 – Synthetic Organic Chemistry CHEM 622 – Physical Organic Chemistry CHEM 631 – Chemical Toxicology CHEM 641 – Chemistry and Biochemistry Education Research CHEM 651 – Spectroscopic Identification of Organic Compounds CHEM 654 – Biological Chemistry CHEM 658 – Medicinal Chemistry CHEM 661 – Analytical Instrumentation CHEM 662 – Applied Chemometrics CHEM 666 – Electrochemistry CHEM 671 – Introduction to Green Chemistry CHEM 680 – Physical Biochemistry CHEM 681 – Medical Biochemistry CHEM 687 – Topics in Chemistry CHEM 688 – Topics in Physical Chemistry CHEM 689 – Topics in Organic Chemistry CHEM 690 – Topics in Inorganic Chemistry CHEM 696 – Independent Study CHEM 697 – Special Topics in Chemistry

Education Departments

EDCG 606 – Sociocultural Foundations of Education HIGHED 612 – Impact of College on Students HIGHED 620 – Teaching, Learning and Curriculum in Urban Contexts HIGHED 636 – Sociological Perspectives on Higher Education EDCG 663 – Assessment in Teaching EDCG 665 – Secondary Science Teaching Methods

ENVSCI 611 – Applied Statistics ENVSCI 635 – Environmental Toxicology ENVSCI 640 – The Chemistry of Natural Waters ENVSCI 710 – Environmental Biogeochemistry ENVSCI 715 – Isotope Geochemistry

SEMINAR COURSES (Enroll in seminar every semester.)

Curriculum - green track.

Students in the Green Chemistry PhD track are required to take two core courses, four elective courses, and at least six credits of Graduate Seminar and twenty credits of dissertation research. Of the four elective courses, at least two must be in the Chemistry Department, whereas up to the two remaining courses can be from other departments upon approval from the student's dissertation committee.

CORE COURSES (Both core courses are required.)

Elective courses (choose four from list.).

Students may choose electives from external departments if they are relevant to their course of study and research. Students choose courses with the permission of the advisor and graduate program director.

SEMINAR COURSES (Minimum of 6 credits.)

Curriculum - inorganic track.

Students in the Inorganic Chemistry PhD track are required to take one core course, two core inorganic chemistry track courses, three elective courses, and at least six credits of Graduate Seminar and twenty credits of dissertation research. Of the three elective courses, one must be in the Chemistry Department, whereas up to two can be from other departments upon approval from the student's dissertation committee. For all courses see the university's Course Listings .

CORE COURSES IN THE INORGANIC CHEMISTRY TRACK (Choose two from list.)

CHEM 611 – Organometallic Catalysis CHEM 612 – Physical Inorganic Chemistry CHEM 690 – Topics in Inorganic Chemistry

ELECTIVE COURSES (Choose three from list.)

Curriculum - organic track, core courses in organic chemistry track (choose two from list.).

CHEM 621 – Synthetic Organic Chemistry CHEM 622 – Physical Organic Chemistry CHEM 658 – Medicinal Chemistry CHEM 689 – Topics in Organic Chemistry

Curriculum - Physical/Analytical Track

Core courses in physical/analytical track (choose two from list.).

CHEM 601 – Thermodynamics and Kinetics CHEM 602 – Quantum Mechanics CHEM 661 – Analytical Instrumentation CHEM 688 – Topics in Physical Chemistry

Graduation Criteria

Complete a minimum of 60 credits from at least 15 courses including one core course, five track courses, six graduate seminars, and a minimum of 20 credits in dissertation courses.

Students must pass a literature seminar in the first year of study.

Track: Students must select a track from green chemistry, biological chemistry, chemistry education research, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, or physical/analytical chemistry. Doctoral candidacy: Pass four written qualifying exams (at least two of which are in the track), and an oral qualifying exam. Dissertation: Candidates must complete and defend a dissertation based on original research.

Statute of limitations: Seven years.

Plan of Study

Graduate Program Director Wei Zhang (Green Chemistry) wei2.zhang [at] umb.edu (617) 287-6147

Graduate Program Director Neil Reilly (Physical/Analytical Chemistry) neil.reilly [at] umb.edu (617) 287-4065

Graduate Program Assistant Rita Lam graduate.chemistry [at] umb.edu (617) 287-6190

Learn more about UMass Boston's Chemistry department, our research, and our faculty.

College of Science & Mathematics

Learn more about the faculty, research, and programs that make up our College of Science and Mathematics.

Green Chemistry

Berkeley’s jeffrey reimer will receive aiche’s warren k. lewis award for che education.

• Read more about Berkeley’s Jeffrey Reimer will receive AIChE’s Warren K. Lewis Award for ChE education

Scientists advance affordable, sustainable solution for flat-panel displays and wearable tech

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Learning from the past: How algae use memory to protect against sudden changes in sunlight

• Read more about Learning from the past: How algae use memory to protect against sudden changes in sunlight

An unexpected discovery at the air-water interface

• Read more about An unexpected discovery at the air-water interface

Capturing wellhead gases for profit and a cleaner environment

• Read more about Capturing wellhead gases for profit and a cleaner environment

A big step toward ‘green’ ammonia and a ‘greener’ fertilizer

A chemical plant that produces ammonia, most of which goes into making fertilizer. (Photo via UC Berkeley)

Industrial production of ammonia, primarily for synthetic fertilizer — the fuel for last century’s Green Revolution — is one of the world’s largest chemical markets, but also one of the most energy intensive.

Globally,...

• Read more about A big step toward ‘green’ ammonia and a ‘greener’ fertilizer

PDP student research becomes white papers for Givaudan

Berries being processed for the marketplace. (photo Adobe Stock)

The Product Development Program (PDP) at UC Berkeley is a master’s level – non-traditional degree program. The program focuses on using real-world product development practices such as those practiced with pharmaceuticals,...

• Read more about PDP student research becomes white papers for Givaudan

Pioneering mountaineer and Berkeley chemist continues quest to reduce harmful chemicals

Arlene Blum (Ph.D. '71, Chem) climbed Mount Everest in late 1976 while she was also writing a scientific paper about dangerous chemicals in children’s pajamas. (Photo courtesy Arlene Blum)

In 1977, three months after Berkeley scientist Arlene Blum climbed Mount Everest and wrote a paper about cancer-causing...

• Read more about Pioneering mountaineer and Berkeley chemist continues quest to reduce harmful chemicals

Building awareness for a sustainable society and lifestyle

A young woman practices sustainable living purchasing bulk items in a store. (adobestock)

At UC Berkeley, students can teach classes called Decal to spread awareness and fun about the topics they are passionate about. Kelly Chou, currently a senior studying...

• Read more about Building awareness for a sustainable society and lifestyle

Circular plastic, the utopia of environmentalists, is a reality

Plastic is a certainly versatile element. There is much we can do with it. Utensils, tools, parts for cars, technological devices. There is only one thing we do not know how to do with plastic: disappear when it is no longer useful. There the real headache begins and the enormous challenge of obtaining a circular or fully recyclable plastic is posed. Plastics contain various additives, such as dyes, fillers or flame retardants and very few of them can be recycled without loss of performance or aesthetics. The most recyclable plastic, PET (ethylene polyterephthalate), is only recycled at a rate of 20-30%. The rest generally goes to incinerators or landfills where it takes centuries to decompose.

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Berkeley Center for Green Chemistry

Innovation for Safer Materials

Welcome to BCGC

Our mission.

The mission of the Berkeley Center for Green Chemistry is to bring about a generational transformation toward the design and use of inherently safer chemicals and materials.

Embedding the principles of green chemistry into science, markets and public policy will provide the foundation for safeguarding human health and ecosystems and provide a cornerstone for a sustainable, clean energy economy.

BCGC collaborates with public and private organizations, offering training and technical advice, advocating for safer products and informed policies, the placement of graduates in the workforce, and informal instruction.

Our Process

We fund and guide research in designing novel chemical processes and materials and in investigating new approaches to toxicity testing, exposure analysis and alternatives assessment.

We teach a core program of courses that integrate the chemical and environmental health sciences with the study of public and private governance and management. This interdisciplinary program focuses on project and team-driven approaches to solving important material challenges and offers actionable results to industry, government and nongovernmental organizations.

We provide technical support to decision-makers, workers, community organizations and businesses working to advance safety and health through green chemistry.

Give to BCGC

Interested in supporting our work? Learn more

For Students

Learn more about our Greener Solutions course offerings

For Partners

Partner with BCGC to solve pressing green chemistry challenges

Stay updated

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Twitter: @bcgc_cal

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Ph.d. (doctoral) program.

Goals and Objectives

The Ph.D. program in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at The University of Toledo is a medium-sized program (currently 20 graduate faculty and approximately 75 graduate students) with research strengths in the areas of synthetic chemistry, biochemistry, bioanalytical chemistry and materials chemistry. Our program features small to medium-sized research groups (3 to 6 graduate students per group) with extensive interactions between research directors and students in an environment that stresses grant-supported research carried out with modern instrumentation. Our department is well equipped with major NMR, MS, SEM, and EPR instrumentation, and IR and Raman spectrometers, as well as with smaller spectroscopic, chromatographic, preparative, and analytical equipment and computers necessary for research in chemistry and biochemistry. In addition, UToledo is the home of the Ohio Crystallography Consortium with an internationally recognized program of small molecule and macromolecular crystallographic research based on three single crystal diffractometers and one powder machine.

Current research areas are in:

• synthetic chemistry includes synthetic methods development, synthesis of potential new drugs and vaccines, chemical biology, and green synthetic chemistry.
• biochemistry includes drug discovery, DNA replication, protein insertion into cellular membranes, circadian rhythms, mechanistic enzymology, protein chemistry, and biomolecular modeling.
• X-ray crystallography spans the chemical sciences from materials chemistry to biological chemistry with studies of energetic materials, metal complexes, proteins, enzyme-substrate complexes and protein-nucleic acid replication proteins
• materials chemistry includes synthesis of thin films and porous materials as well as the development sensors and extraction materials for analytical applications, and applications of thermal analysis and crystal engineering.

Our department's objectives in our research program are to strengthen established research foci in synthetic and biological chemistry as well as materials by addition of new faculty, continued acquisition of state-of-the-art research equipment, growth of the department's annual external grant budget, and an increase in faculty and graduate student publication rates.

Admission requirements for the program are a bachelor's degree in chemistry or biochemistry from an accredited college or university with a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4 point scale. Included among these indicators are strong grades in upper-level chemistry or biochemistry courses, and experience in academic or industrial research. Applicants are not required to have taken a curriculum accredited by the American Chemical Society, but their training in chemistry, physics and mathematics should be equivalent to that in an accredited curriculum.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The doctoral program is designed to ensure you have the basic foundation of knowledge and are equipped with the tools necessary to do independent research. The emphasis on research recognizes the power of original research to arouse the scientific curiosity of the student, to develop and stimulate creativity and to encourage further discovery through independent study.

The doctoral program is divided into three stages for the typical student.

• Stage 1 - includes correcting deficiencies as well as establishing through a set of prescribed courses the foundation for further training, a research director is chosen.
• Stage 2 - the student pursues research toward the dissertation, undertakes comprehensive examinations, and prepares the required original research proposals.
• Stage 3 - after meeting the comprehensive examination requirements the student is admitted to candidacy where the student focuses efforts on research and completion of the doctoral dissertation.

Departmental degree requirements are listed in the following section. Further details about examinations and admission to candidacy may be obtained from the department.

REQUIREMENTS

Candidates for the Doctor of Philosophy degree are required to meet the requirements of the University, the College of  Graduate Studies, and the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics as stated in the "Requirements" section of the UToledo Graduate Catalog.

In addition, the following departmental requirements must be met:

• Plan of Study approved by research committee, which includes six (6) 8000-level courses as part of the plan of study
• Registration for Chemistry Colloquium is required each term.
• Registration for Research Seminar is required each term.
• Complete two semesters in supervised half-time teaching satisfactorily.
• After admission to candidacy, each student is required to spend, consecutively, a minimum of two semesters and a summer term (i.e., one year) in full-time study at the University of Toledo.
• All dissertation research must be carried out in laboratories of the University of Toledo.

graduate placement and impact

The Ph.D. program of the department serves the needs of Ohio in a number of ways. Many graduates are employed in the chemical, pharmaceutical and consumer products industries of the state, and other graduates are employed as faculty members at colleges and universities within the state, approximately 15-20% of graduates remaining in the state to pursue careers. The research carried out in the department has a direct impact on Ohio's economy. For example, research on thin films is being translated into new products in the glass industry and in the nascent solar energy industry. Hormone and replication protein structural studies are directed toward understanding breast cancer. The Instrumentation Center provides advanced analytical services to Ohio industries.

The department prepares Ph.D. recipients for careers in the industrial, academic, or government sectors. About 70% of our Ph.D. graduates are engaged in industrial careers, and about 20% are in academic careers as tenured or tenure-track faculty members at colleges and universities across the U.S. and around the world. The remaining 10% are in a variety of positions including government service, postdoctoral positions, as self-employed consultants, and other positions. Historically about 30% of our graduates pursue a postdoctoral position as their initial placement after completing their degree. The department recognizes that these positions are necessary for some career choices and desirable in many cases for the broadened training that results.

Graduate Placement

•  Industrial careers into positions with leading chemical and pharmaceutical companies
• Academic careers in four-year primarily undergraduate institutes as well as universities offering M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in chemistry and biochemistry.
• For those students who choose a postdoctoral research position, our objective is to place these students in highly competitive laboratories at the leading academic or industrial research centers in the U.S. and abroad.

The Ph.D. program in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, along with all other departmental degree programs, is reviewed regularly as part of the University's process of program review.

• Opportunities

Center for Green Chemistry & Green Engineering at Yale

You are here

Undergraduate & graduate.

Our higher-ed educational resources are crafted to support university students and faculty in implementing and sharing green chemistry in curriculum.

Yale-UNIDO University Curriculum

This course is intended for undergraduates with no prior knowledge of green chemistry and aims to explore how the principles of green chemistry can help resolve global human health and environmental issues. Students will learn to identify different environmental and human health problems, and consider the appropriate solutions using green chemistry tools covered in the course. Upon completion of the course, students will have learned how green chemistry is a fine balance of different concepts and disciplines, including sustainability, chemistry, toxicology, and molecular design.

Safer Chemical Design Game

The game was designed to introduce students to safer chemical design concepts that are focused on the manipulation of molecule parameters in order to minimize the undesired biological and environmental interactions of a hypothetical commercial chemical. The game scenarios model the decision making process used by professionals to design a new chemical. Critically, the computer game simulates the real-world constraints that may affect chemical product development as the student designs a novel product. Players are presented with the challenge of creating a molecule by changing molecular parameters to achieve the optimal result, and while doing so, navigate trade-offs that result from their choices. Each level was divided into three sub-levels, namely, human toxicity, aquatic toxicity and performance, and each has a task that requires completion. 

MoDRN: U Modules

The MoDRN Team (funded by the NSF) has put together a set of modules for undergraduate chemistry, biology, and environmental science classrooms (and beyond!) to introduce concepts of green chemistry and sustainable chemical design. The overall goal of these materials is to engage undergraduate students with educational activities that will aid dissemination of scientific principles relevant to the design of safer, next-generation molecules. Integrating MoDRN:U Modules into existing undergraduate lesson plans will allow students to make more connections with how interdisciplinary these topics truly are.  The following MoDRN:U Modules are free to use and modify. Please return back frequently for new modules to come.

Green Chemistry Videos

The MoDRN Team and Paul Anastas have put together videos to introduce concepts of green chemistry to design and synthesize safer chemicals with less impact. These videos are designed to look at science behind environmental problems and to understand how green chemistry can help to solve them. Students can explore areas where green chemistry was successfully applied and where the lack of green chemistry systems thinking led to unintended consequences. 

Student Videos on Green Chemistry

The Center hosted a student video competition in March 2018 and the winning videos were announced and screened at the 22nd Green Chemistry & Engineering conference in Portland, Oregon. The competition was designed to engage green chemistry community and create opportunity to build educational materials that can be used in university curriculum and in workshops around the world. Students were asked to explain how chemists use green chemistry to solve sustainability challenges. The competition is part of the bigger Yale-UNIDO initiative, which aims to increase the general global awareness and capacities on deployable Green Chemistry approaches for the design of products and processes that advance global environmental benefits throughout their life cycles. The winning videos and honorable mentions are hosted here and can be used for educational purposes.

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 .

John Warner

Green Chemistry

John C. Warner spends his time working to ensure that all practicing chemists will one day have the necessary skills to invent truly sustainable technologies. John is a chemist, inventor, educator, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Green Chemistry.

Learning Chemistry

With over 100 publications, John helped to create the world’s first Ph.D program in Green Chemistry. He also co-founded with Dr. Amy Cannon Beyond Benign, a non-profit organization dedicated in supporting and assisting Green Chemistry Education around the world known.

Doing Chemistry

John’s inventions have served as the foundation of 5 new companies that include Green Chemistry on their processes and products: Ambient Photonics , Collaborative Aggregates , Collaborative Medicinal Development , Hairprint , and Warner Babcock .

Managing Chemistry

Dr. John Warner has been an active participant in chemical policy programs, and therefore has served in various leadership roles on a number of governmental initiatives and committees. Moreover, John has also been on several industrial advisory boards.

Inventing Chemistry

As a 2014 Perkin Medal recipient, John has over 300 patents in various fields such as adhesives and coatings , composites and textiles , construction and water technologies , cosmetics and personal care , electronics and photovoltaics , imaging systems , and medicinal chemistry.

John Warner is involved in all aspects of the chemicals and materials enterprises.

Speaking about green chemistry.

John Warner has spoken around the world to audiences ranging from non-technical community groups to industrial chemists about his quest to change the way we do, learn, invent and manage chemistry.

“John Warner, Invention Education and Green Chemistry”, Beyond Benign and Warner Babcock Institute for Green Chemistry (October 2019).

“Making the world better with chemistry”, Inaugural Lecture on Green Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry of Technische Universität Berlin (September 2022).

WHAT’S NEW

Green and sustainable chemistry bootcamp with john warner, bioneers 2023: the materials metabolism – rethinking our molecular relationship with nature, acs elections: for president elect: john c. warner.

View more news & events

John has invented solutions for dozens of multinational corporations. His inventions have also served as the basis for several new organizations and companies.

Copyright © 2024 John Warner, All Rights Reserved.

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Green Chemistry & Chemical Stewardship Online Certificate Program

This certificate program provides professionals with new tools for incorporating chemical toxicity and human health considerations into product design, materials selections and supply chain decision-making. The courses focus on sustainability business models and green chemistry principles to prevent and reduce pollution at the source. Program participants may register for all 3 courses at one time, or register at least 2 weeks before the start of each course. During this 3-course program, you will explore:

• Business drivers and barriers to implementing sustainable practices
• Frameworks for incorporating chemical toxicity and human health considerations into product design, material selections, and supply chain decision-making
• The 12 guiding principles of green chemistry
• Environmental, economic, and societal benefits of green chemistry
• Latest research and regulatory developments in the field

New tools for chemical design and methods for comparative chemical hazard assessments

3 required courses:

COURSE I: Sustainability, Toxicology, and Human Health  

September 25, 2023 - December 8, 2023 | Cost: $910 | CEUs: 5

Overview of fundamental principles of toxicology, human health, and material science. Participants will review their own business’ sustainability drivers and barriers while investigating the health and environmental hazards that contribute to human disease.

COURSE II: Principles of Green Chemistry  

January 2, 2024 - March 8, 2024 | Cost: $910 | CEUs: 5

Fundamental principles of green chemistry, including the human and ecological reasons for considering less toxic alternatives and the various green applications to chemical design. overview of new tools and cutting edge research for the design of 21st century chemicals that minimize hazards to health and the environment.

COURSE III: Assessment Tools for Safer Chemical Decisions  

March 25, 2024 - May 31, 2024 | Cost: $910 | CEUs: 5

Decision-making tools and methods used for comparative chemical hazard assessments. Participants will have an opportunity to use these tools through the completion of a culminating project.

View the  Program Flyer

This certification program is endorsed by the Association for the Advancement of Alternatives Assessment (A4)

PROGRAM INSTRUCTORS

Founder & Principal, Safer Chemistry Advisory LLC

Catherine Rudisill has 18 years experience providing expert research and consulting services. During her tenure at SRC's globally-recognized Environmental Health Analysis group, she worked with clients such as the U.S. EPA, National Library of Medicine, Washington Department of Ecology, and commercial organizations. In 2022, she founded her own environmental consulting firm dedicated solely to sustainable and safer chemicals. For 10 years she worked with the U.S. EPA Safer Choice Program, one of the most impactful eco-labels on the market. She supported various Safer Choice initiatives, notably the publication and expansion of the Safer Chemical Ingredients List. She has a BS in Chemistry from Shippensburg University, a MS In Environmental Sciences and Policy from Johns Hopkins University, Certification in Sustainable Capitalism and ESG from Berkely Law, plus additional training in the assessment of endocrine disrupting chemicals.

Program Director, Global Green Chemistry Innovation and Network Program, Yale Center for Green Chemistry and Green Engineering

Dr. Karolina Mellor oversees all education, outreach and international partnerships at the Center. Before coming to Yale in 2014, Karolina received her Ph.D. in molecular biology from the University of Virginia. She also worked at the University Innovation Licensing and Ventures Group where she evaluated patent strategies and explored commercial potential of technologies developed at the university. Now, Dr. Mellor oversees the Yale-UNIDO collaboration that brings green chemistry to practitioners in emerging economies around the globe.  She works with industry, academia and governments to advance dissemination green chemistry and sustainability. Outside of the lab, Karolina is an avid runner, salsa dancer and a foodie. She also loves sci-fi and fantasy in any shape or form.

Recorded Info Session with Karolina Mellor

Senior Process Chemist, Modumetal

Richard Morgan is a senior process chemist at Modumetal, where he works with research, development and scale-up of metal coatings and surface-finishing processes of advanced nanotech coating systems. Previously, as a chemist at Boeing Defense, Space & Security and senior chemist at Aerojet Rocketdyne, Morgan developed and characterized aerospace propellants and fire suppression systems and maintained metal finishing and surface coatings for space vehicles. Since 2006, he has taught introductory chemistry classes at Lake Washington Technical College, advising on councils for energy and science technician and engineering technician degrees. Morgan is the principal for Rick Morgan Technical Consulting.

“Knowing which [selection] tools work best and knowing how to use them can be really effective in building the business case for chemical selection.”

- Rick Morgan, MS

Recorded Info Session with Rick Morgan

Harriet Bullitt Endowed Executive Director, EarthLab, University of Washington

Ben Packard serves as the Harriet Bullitt Endowed Executive Director of EarthLab at the University of Washington, an initiative that harnesses the power of collaboration to tackle thorny environmental challenges including climate change, ocean health, natural hazards and healthy ecosystems. Ben is responsible for working strategically within and beyond the University to promote new learning and action to address environmental challenges by building relationships between the University and public, private and nonprofit sectors. Before coming to EarthLab, Ben served as the Global Managing Director of Corporate Engagement at The Nature Conservancy (TNC). In this senior management role, Ben was accountable for TNC’s overall corporate engagement strategy in service of the mission to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. From 1998-2013 Ben worked at Starbucks Coffee Company, serving as vice president, Global Responsibility from 2008-2013. He was part of the original team at Starbucks that established the world-class sustainability strategy for the company. Ben received a BA in History (1989) from Kenyon College an MBA & Certificate in Environmental Management from the University of Washington Foster School of Business (1998).

Associate Teaching Professor, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Science, University of Washington

Director, Occupational Safety and Health Continuing Education Programs

Affiliate Instructor, Nursing and Health Studies, University of Washington – Bothell

Nancy Simcox, MS, is a Lecturer and the Director of the Continuing Education Programs for the UW Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences. She develops and delivers research-based education programs for practicing professionals, including industrial hygienists, physicians, nurses, safety engineers and others in the environmental, health and safety field. Ms. Simcox has over 25 years of experience as a research industrial hygienist at both the UW Field Research and Consultation Group and the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine at the University of Connecticut Health, where she conducted workplace site visits; designed exposure assessment protocols for evaluation, intervention and research; and performed data reduction and statistical analysis for health-based research projects. Ms. Simcox is also an Affiliate Instructor, Nursing and Health Studies, University of Washington – Bothell.

Senior Toxicologist, Boeing

Affiliate Faculty, Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington

Dr. Britt Weldon is a Toxicologist at Boeing where she provides chemical safety and human health expertise and support to Boeing’s aerospace manufacturing factory operations, engineering, research and development, and chemical policy and compliance teams. Dr. Weldon completed her PhD in Toxicology and Environmental Health at the University of Washington in 2016 where she investigated the toxicity of nanoparticles in biological systems. She specializes in human health risk assessment, public policy, safer chemical alternatives, and public engagement with science.

Energy and Climate Advisor, Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc.

Kevin Laycock is an Energy and Climate Advisor at Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc. where he provides in-depth analysis of complex energy strategic planning decisions, climate action planning, carbon mitigation strategy as well as the development of analytical tools used to meet those goals, for clients in higher education and commercial enterprises.   Prior to his work at Brailsford & Dunlavey, Kevin founded EcoFAB, LLC, an energy auditing and home performance retrofit service that worked with municipal, commercial, residential, and tribal clients throughout the PNW.     He has also served on the Board of the Network for Business Innovation and Sustainability (Seattle based 501.c3) for over 10 years to help develop their sustainable business networking programs.   Kevin received his BS in Physics from the University of Connecticut, an MA In International Studies, with a focus on China, from the University of Washington and an MBA with a focus on Sustainable Business Practices from the Presidio Graduate School.

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Algorithm ranks peer reviewers by reputation — but critics warn of bias

How gliding marsupials got their ‘wings’

Nato is boosting ai and climate research as scientific diplomacy remains on ice, plastic pollution: three numbers that support a crackdown, the maldives is racing to create new land. why are so many people concerned, first glowing animals lit up the oceans half a billion years ago.

Retractions are part of science, but misconduct isn’t — lessons from a superconductivity lab

Any plan to make smoking obsolete is the right step

Citizenship privilege harms science

European ruling linking climate change to human rights could be a game changer — here’s how charlotte e. blattner, will ai accelerate or delay the race to net-zero emissions, current issue.

Surprise hybrid origins of a butterfly species

Stripped-envelope supernova light curves argue for central engine activity, optical clocks at sea, research analysis.

Ancient DNA traces family lines and political shifts in the Avar empire

A chemical method for selective labelling of the key amino acid tryptophan

Robust optical clocks promise stable timing in a portable package

Targeting RNA opens therapeutic avenues for Timothy syndrome

Bioengineered ‘mini-colons’ shed light on cancer progression, galaxy found napping in the primordial universe, tumours form without genetic mutations, marsupial genomes reveal how a skin membrane for gliding evolved.

Scientists urged to collect royalties from the ‘magic money tree’

Breaking ice, and helicopter drops: winning photos of working scientists

Shrouded in secrecy: how science is harmed by the bullying and harassment rumour mill

How ground glass might save crops from drought on a caribbean island, londoners see what a scientist looks like up close in 50 photographs, books & culture.

How volcanoes shaped our planet — and why we need to be ready for the next big eruption

Dogwhistles, drilling and the roots of Western civilization: Books in brief

Cosmic rentals

Las borinqueñas remembers the forgotten puerto rican women who tested the first pill, dad always mows on summer saturday mornings, nature podcast.

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