Emory University

What you'll study

Coursework and project work are tailored to each student’s research direction, but typical topics and modules include:

• Materials characterisation: electron microscopy, X‑ray diffraction, spectroscopy and thermal analysis methods for probing structure and properties.
• Solid‑state and condensed matter fundamentals: crystallography, defects, phase behaviour and electronic structure as they relate to materials behaviour.
• Polymers and soft matter: synthesis, rheology and structure–property relationships in polymeric systems and composites.
• Nanoscience and nanotechnology: synthesis and assembly of nanoscale materials, surface chemistry and size‑dependent properties.
• Biomaterials and interfaces: design and testing of materials for medical devices, tissue engineering and biointeractions.
• Computational materials science: modelling and simulation methods used to predict structure, properties and performance.
• Advanced laboratory and research practicum: extended hands‑on projects in faculty laboratories, including independent experimental design and data analysis.

Students typically complete core graduate courses early in their programme and then focus on specialised electives and an independent research programme leading to a written dissertation and oral defence.

Entry requirements

• Academic qualifications: a bachelor’s degree in materials science, chemistry, physics, engineering or a closely related discipline; applicants with a relevant master’s degree are also welcome.
• Academic record: strong preparation in foundational subjects such as physical chemistry, solid‑state physics, thermodynamics and laboratory methods.
• Application materials: a personal statement describing research interests and goals, a curriculum vitae, and academic transcripts.
• References: two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to research potential and preparation for doctoral study.
• Research experience: prior laboratory or project experience is strongly recommended and considered an advantage.
• English language proficiency: for applicants whose first language is not English, proof of proficiency is required in accordance with university regulations.
• Standardised tests: any programme‑specific requirements for tests (such as the GRE) will be stated by the department and may vary; check the department admissions guidance for current practice.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Materials Sciences pursue a variety of career paths. Common destinations include academic research and teaching, industrial R&D positions in sectors such as electronics, energy, aerospace and polymers, roles in national laboratories, and careers in technology commercialisation and start‑ups. Other opportunities include positions in scientific consulting, intellectual property and patent law (with additional training), and science policy or management roles that leverage deep technical expertise.

Why study at Emory University

• Interdisciplinary environment: Emory fosters collaborations across departments and with neighbouring institutions, enabling materials researchers to work at the interface of chemistry, physics, engineering and the biomedical sciences.
• Research mentorship: doctoral students receive close supervision from faculty with active research programmes and are encouraged to develop independent research agendas.
• Access to core facilities: students benefit from university instrumentation and shared facilities for microscopy, spectroscopy and other advanced characterisation techniques.
• Translational opportunities: proximity to clinical and industry partners supports work on biomaterials and other application‑focused projects, and helps bridge fundamental research with real‑world impact.
• Funding and professional development: PhD students are typically supported through a combination of research assistantships, teaching opportunities and scholarships, and participate in seminars, workshops and training that prepare them for diverse careers.