University of Michigan

What you'll study

This PhD programme combines advanced coursework, original research and professional development to build deep expertise in electrochemical engineering. Core topics typically include electrochemical kinetics and thermodynamics, electrode and electrolyte materials, mass and charge transport in porous and multiphase systems, interfacial phenomena, corrosion and protection, and electrochemical reactor design. Students also study advanced transport phenomena, statistical and computational methods, materials characterisation techniques, and catalyst and electrode design.

Programme structure normally comprises an initial period of coursework and qualifying examinations followed by an extended, supervised research project leading to a doctoral dissertation. Typical activities include:

• Graduate courses in electrochemistry, transport phenomena, materials science and modelling;
• Laboratory rotations or directed research to identify a dissertation advisor and research group;
• Regular participation in research seminars, group meetings and departmental colloquia;
• Teaching or mentoring undergraduate laboratories and seminars as part of professional development;
• Publication of research in peer‑reviewed journals and presentation at national and international conferences.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree in chemical engineering or a closely related discipline; many incoming students also have a master’s degree and prior research experience. Typical academic preparation includes courses in physical chemistry, transport phenomena, reaction engineering, materials science and calculus‑based mathematics. Successful applicants demonstrate research potential through prior project work, publications, or strong letters of reference, and submit a personal statement outlining research interests and fit with potential advisors.

Admissions committees consider the whole application package, including academic transcripts, references and research alignment with departmental strengths. International applicants should show proficiency in English according to the university’s language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD programme pursue a range of research and leadership roles. Common career paths include:

• Academic research and teaching positions at universities and colleges;
• Research scientist or engineering roles in industry sectors such as battery and fuel cell development, energy storage, electrochemical manufacturing, semiconductor processing and corrosion mitigation;
• Staff scientist or project leader roles in national and international research laboratories and government research organisations;
• Technology development and management positions in start‑ups and established companies focusing on advanced materials, clean energy technologies and sustainable chemical processes;
• Consulting roles addressing process scale‑up, failure analysis and materials selection for electrochemical systems.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan’s Department of Chemical Engineering is housed within a large, research‑intensive engineering school that supports interdisciplinary collaboration across materials science, mechanical and electrical engineering, and the energy sciences. Students benefit from access to advanced characterisation facilities and fabrication resources, as well as interdisciplinary centres and initiatives that target energy storage, sustainability and advanced materials.

Faculty members active in electrochemical engineering work on topics spanning fundamental electrochemistry to device integration and scale‑up, providing opportunities to tackle both basic science and application‑driven problems. The Ann Arbor campus environment, combined with strong industry partnerships and connections to regional research networks, creates a supportive setting for doctoral training and professional development.

Prospective students are encouraged to review faculty research profiles, contact potential advisors whose interests align with their own, and consider how the department’s resources and collaborations can support their long‑term research goals.