University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, rigorous quantitative training and sustained original research. Early study typically covers core chemical engineering subjects such as transport phenomena, advanced reaction engineering and thermodynamics, alongside specialised electrochemical topics including electrochemical kinetics, electrode/electrolyte interface science, corrosion and protection, and electrochemical energy conversion and storage.

• Advanced Transport Phenomena and Electrochemical Mass Transport
• Electrochemical Kinetics and Mechanisms
• Materials for Electrochemical Energy Storage (electrodes, electrolytes, solid-state ionics)
• Corrosion Science and Protective Coatings
• Modelling and Simulation of Electrochemical Systems (multi-physics modelling, continuum and atomistic approaches)
• Characterisation Techniques (electrochemical methods, microscopy, spectroscopy)
• Electrosynthesis, Sensors and Electrochemical Manufacturing Processes

Doctoral study centres on a sustained independent research project supervised by faculty in the Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering and collaborating units across the university. Candidates complete qualifying assessments and a dissertation and often participate in group meetings, seminars and teaching to develop communication and leadership skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree with honours or a master's degree in chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry, physics or a closely related discipline. Typical elements of a successful application include:

• A transcript showing strong performance in relevant coursework (transport phenomena, physical chemistry, electrochemistry or materials science).
• Evidence of research experience, such as a master’s thesis, undergraduate research project or industrial R&D work.
• A curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests outlining proposed directions in electrochemical engineering, and the names of academic referees.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Standard departmental assessments such as interviews with potential supervisors are commonly used to evaluate fit. The department advises contacting faculty whose research aligns with your interests before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in Electrochemical Engineering are prepared for research-intensive careers in academia, national laboratories and industry. Typical employment sectors and roles include:

• Battery and energy storage companies (cell design, materials development, systems integration)
• Fuel cell and hydrogen technology firms
• Corrosion control and materials protection in infrastructure, oil & gas and aerospace
• Semiconductor and advanced manufacturing companies using electrochemical processes
• National and federal research laboratories and government research programmes
• Academic positions as principal investigators or faculty and postdoctoral research roles
• Technical leadership in start-ups, consulting and intellectual property development

PhD graduates are typically valued for their deep experimental and modelling skills, ability to design and interpret electrochemical measurements, and experience in translating lab-scale science toward practical systems.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers a research-active environment with strong interdisciplinary links between chemical engineering, materials science, physics and electrical engineering. The department supports electrochemical research across themes such as energy storage, corrosion, electrochemical synthesis and sensor development.

• Access to modern instrumentation and shared core facilities for materials characterisation and device fabrication.
• Faculty engaged in applied and fundamental electrochemical research and collaborations with regional industry and national research partners.
• A professional culture that emphasises mentoring, professional development and opportunities to teach and present research.
• Proximity to a diverse industrial base in the Midwest, facilitating partnerships, internships and technology transfer opportunities.

Overall, the University of Cincinnati’s PhD pathway in Electrochemical Engineering is suited to candidates seeking a rigorous combination of coursework and hands-on research that positions them for leadership in scientific research, technology development and industry innovation.