Georgia Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The PhD emphasises independent research supported by a foundation of advanced coursework and professional development. Early in the programme students complete graduate-level courses in core chemical engineering topics such as transport phenomena, thermodynamics and reaction engineering alongside specialised subjects in electrochemical engineering: electrochemical kinetics, electrode and electrolyte materials, transport in porous electrodes, battery and fuel-cell systems, corrosion science, and electrochemical synthesis.

Programme structure typically includes a combination of:

• Advanced coursework to build depth in electrochemical theory, materials science and numerical methods.
• Laboratory rotations or early research projects to identify a thesis advisor and research group.
• Seminars, journal clubs and teaching experience to develop communication and pedagogy skills.
• A qualifying examination or milestone to transition to doctoral candidacy, followed by original research leading to a written dissertation and public defence.

Methodologies covered include experimental electrochemical characterisation (potentiostat techniques, impedance spectroscopy), materials synthesis and characterisation, multi-physics modelling of electrochemical devices, and scale-up considerations. Interdisciplinary collaboration with materials science, mechanical engineering and the Georgia Tech Energy Institute is common, enabling projects at the interface of chemistry, materials and systems engineering.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree, usually in chemical engineering, chemical sciences, materials science or a closely related engineering discipline. A strong academic record and solid preparation in mathematics (calculus, differential equations), thermodynamics, transport phenomena and physical chemistry are important. Many successful applicants hold a master’s degree and/or have prior research experience in electrochemical topics or related laboratories.

Typical application materials requested include an academic transcript, a statement of research interests that aligns with electrochemical faculty, a curriculum vitae, and academic references who can speak to research potential. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to institutional requirements. Admissions committees evaluate fit with potential advisors and research groups in addition to academic credentials.

Career prospects

Graduates develop skills that are in demand across academia, government research and industry. Career paths commonly taken by alumni include:

• Academic research and faculty positions, leading independent research programmes in electrochemical systems and materials.
• Industrial R&D roles in sectors such as energy storage and conversion (batteries, fuel cells, electrolyzers), electrochemical manufacturing, corrosion prevention and sensors.
• Technical positions in national laboratories and research institutes working on large-scale energy and sustainability projects.
• Product development, process engineering and technical leadership roles in companies focused on clean energy, advanced materials, and chemical production using electrochemical routes.

The combination of experimental, modelling and systems-level training also prepares graduates for roles in start-ups and technology translation where multidisciplinary understanding and problem-solving are essential.

Why study at Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech’s School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering supports a vibrant electrochemical research community with access to modern instrumentation, clean-room facilities through campus partnerships and interdisciplinary centres focused on energy and materials. Students benefit from collaboration opportunities across departments, industry partnerships and connections with national laboratories.

The PhD environment emphasises mentorship from faculty active in electrochemical research, close engagement with research groups, and professional development through seminars, teaching and technical communication. Funding is commonly available through research and teaching assistantships and competitive fellowships, allowing students to concentrate on research. The programme’s location within a major research university fosters networking, entrepreneurship and exposure to a diverse set of translational problems in energy and chemical technology.