Dartmouth University

What you'll study

The PhD in Chemistry with a focus on optics and quantum chemistry emphasises both foundational theory and hands-on research. Early study combines advanced coursework with laboratory rotations to expose students to experimental photonics, ultrafast spectroscopy and computational quantum chemistry.

• Core topics: quantum mechanics for chemists, advanced statistical mechanics, and the theory of light–matter interaction.
• Optics and photonics: nonlinear optics, ultrafast spectroscopy, laser physics, and nanophotonics.
• Quantum chemistry and computation: electronic structure methods, many-body techniques, quantum dynamics, and quantum simulation methods applicable to molecular and condensed-phase systems.
• Practical training: laboratory rotations, instrument development, experimental design, or high-performance computing for ab initio and density functional methods.
• Seminars and transferable skills: regular department seminars, journal clubs, teaching opportunities and workshops in scientific communication, grant writing and data analysis.

Programme structure typically consists of the first year devoted to coursework and rotations, followed by a qualifying or candidacy examination. Subsequent years are dominated by dissertation research under a faculty advisor, with opportunities for collaboration across engineering and physics departments and with regional research centres.

Entry requirements

Admission is intended for candidates who already hold a bachelor's degree or a master's degree in chemistry, physics, materials science or a closely related discipline. Typical expectations include:

• A strong academic record with substantial coursework in physical chemistry, quantum mechanics and mathematics (linear algebra, calculus, differential equations).
• Evidence of research experience — laboratory or computational — demonstrated through research projects, theses, or publications.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors who can speak to the applicant's research potential and independence.
• A personal statement or research statement outlining research interests in optics, spectroscopy or quantum chemistry and alignment with departmental faculty expertise.
• Proof of English language proficiency where applicable (e.g. for applicants whose first language is not English).

Admissions committees also consider the fit between an applicant's interests and available faculty mentors. Some applicants enter with a master's degree and some with only an undergraduate degree; prior publications or substantial laboratory experience strengthen an application. Standardised test requirements vary by year and should be checked on the department's admissions webpage.

Career prospects

Graduates from this area follow a wide range of careers reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the training:

• Academic research: postdoctoral appointments and faculty positions in chemistry, physics and engineering departments focusing on quantum optics, spectroscopy, materials or chemical physics.
• National laboratories and government research: roles in national labs and research institutes working on quantum information science, photonics, sensing and energy-related projects.
• Industry: R&D roles in photonics, semiconductor and optoelectronics companies, quantum computing startups, chemical and pharmaceutical companies using spectroscopy and computational chemistry.
• Technology translation and entrepreneurship: developing instrumentation, sensors or quantum-enabled devices, often in collaboration with technology transfer offices or incubators.
• Other paths: careers in scientific consulting, intellectual property and patent law (often with additional qualifications), or science policy and management.

Why study at Dartmouth University

Students in this programme benefit from close mentorship, a small graduate cohort and access to interdisciplinary collaborations across physics, engineering and materials science. The department provides hands-on training with advanced laser systems, ultrafast spectroscopy facilities and computational resources, while encouraging collaborations with regional research centres and industry partners.

The college environment fosters individual mentoring and opportunities to teach and develop leadership skills. Graduate students are typically supported through research assistantships, teaching assistantships or fellowships, allowing them to focus on rigorous research training that prepares them for both academic and industry careers in optics and quantum chemistry.