About The Department
The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering is nationally recognized for its leadership in modern engineering research and education. We help provide students with the tools, experience, and adaptability to prosper—not only as new graduates but also throughout their careers.
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- Undergraduate Programs
- Graduate Programs
- Faculty
- Research
- Seminars & Colloquia
- Our Commitment to Community and Belonging
Undergraduate Programs
At the undergraduate level, we offer a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering. Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, the program immerses students, from the very beginning, in computer applications, design, and communication. Students receive the benefits that come from studying at a major research institution, coupled with the personalized attention one expects from a prestigious, private university.
We also offer a minor in biotechnology and biochemical engineering. The minor is designed for students who have an interest in the emerging areas of pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and bioprocessing. A host of McCormick-wide special programs are also available to undergraduate students.
Graduate Programs
The graduate program in chemical and biological engineering is one of the highest ranked programs of its kind in the nation. It emphasizes both core chemical engineering training and interdisciplinary research that’s on the cutting edge of the field. Both master’s and PhD degrees are offered.
Students enrolled in the PhD program have the option of completing the biotechnology training program or the chemistry of life processes training program. We also offer the master of science in biotechnology program, a professional master’s program.
Faculty
The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering includes 24 core faculty members, as well as courtesy faculty with major appointments in fields such as biomedical engineering, environmental engineering, chemistry, and materials science and engineering.
Our faculty members have been frequently recognized for their excellence in research and teaching. Among the faculty there are 11 National Science Foundation PYI/NYI/CAREER Award recipients, 2 Packard Science and Engineering Fellows, 3 members of the National Academy of Engineering, and winners of numerous other research awards.
Research
Faculty members are organized into the following research area groups
- Sustainability and Energy
- Biotechnology and Synthetic Biology
- Catalysis and Reaction Engineering
- Polymers and Soft Materials
- Complex Systems and Data Science
Additionally, our faculty members participate in several interdisciplinary centers and institutes:
- Center for Catalysis and Surface Science
- Center for Synthetic Biology
- Materials Research Science and Engineering Center
- International Institute for Nanotechnology
- Northwestern's Institute on Complex Systems
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center
Seminars & Colloquia
The Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering hosts several seminars during the academic year, enriching the learning experience our students receive.
Click here for more information and a schedule.
Our Commitment to Community and Belonging
In line with our whole-brain engineering philosophy, at Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering we believe that new ideas and innovations arise through the collaboration of thinkers with different perspectives, experiences, and strengths.
As a community, we value belonging, equality, and the shared pursuit of excellence. We seek to ensure that all members of our community are empowered and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. We welcome differences and encourage teamwork. We are committed to ensuring that all students, faculty, and staff feel supported to fully engage in research and education with the resources they need to thrive.