CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, original research and professional development to prepare students for independent research in optics and quantum chemistry. Early stages emphasise core graduate-level subjects and laboratory rotations; later stages focus on dissertation research under the supervision of a faculty mentor.

• Core coursework: Advanced Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics, Advanced Physical Chemistry, Mathematical Methods for Chemists.
• Specialist modules: Quantum Chemistry and Electronic Structure Theory, Molecular Spectroscopy, Quantum Optics, Nonlinear and Ultrafast Optics, Photonics and Nanophotonics, Light–Matter Interaction in Condensed Phases.
• Computational and experimental training: Electronic structure methods (DFT, post-Hartree–Fock), quantum dynamics, numerical methods, as well as hands-on laboratory techniques in laser spectroscopy, single-photon detection, ultrafast optics and instrumentation.
• Research training: Laboratory rotations (where available), seminar series, journal clubs, a qualifying/comprehensive examination and a dissertation proposal defence leading to the PhD research project and dissertation.
• Professional development: Opportunities for teaching experience as graduate teaching assistants, research communication training, and interdisciplinary collaborations with centres focused on photonics, materials and quantum information.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physics, materials science or a closely related discipline. Many successful applicants have a master’s degree and prior research experience in physical chemistry, optics, spectroscopy or quantum theory.

• Academic background: Undergraduate-level courses in physical chemistry, quantum mechanics, mathematics (calculus and linear algebra) and experimental laboratory work are important preparation.
• Research experience: Demonstrated laboratory or computational research, such as an undergraduate or master’s project, strengthens an application.
• Application materials: Typical materials include academic transcripts, a statement of research interests, a curriculum vitae, and strong letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors. International applicants are usually required to demonstrate English proficiency.
• Supervisor match: Admission often depends on alignment between an applicant’s research interests and available faculty mentors; prospective students are encouraged to contact potential advisors before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme go on to careers across academia, government and industry where expertise in optics, photonics and quantum chemistry is in demand. The training prepares students for both fundamental and applied roles.

• Academic research and teaching: Postdoctoral positions and faculty roles in chemistry, physics and interdisciplinary departments.
• National laboratories and research institutes: Roles in spectroscopy, quantum information science, materials characterisation and large-scale facilities.
• Industry: R&D positions in photonics and optical communications, quantum computing companies, semiconductor and materials firms, instrumentation and analytical equipment manufacturers.
• Other paths: Technical consulting, patent law (with further qualification), science policy, and science communication.

Why study at CUNY(The City University of New York)

CUNY offers a research-rich environment across multiple campuses with strengths in optics, materials and quantum science. Students benefit from access to interdisciplinary centres and shared facilities, close collaborations with faculty across the CUNY system and external research partners, and the opportunity to work in an urban setting with extensive industry and national laboratory connections.

• Research centres and facilities: Proximity to specialised labs and advanced instrumentation for spectroscopy, ultrafast optics and nanoscale characterisation provides practical training for experimental and theoretical work.
• Collaborations: Cross-campus collaborations and partnerships with regional research institutions broaden access to expertise and resources.
• Teaching and professional experience: The programme offers teaching assistantships and professional development that build communication and pedagogical skills valued by employers and academic institutions.