Overview
The University of Rochester Department of Chemistry is a medium-sized department with internationally recognized research and a small student-to-faculty ratio. The department is a center for cutting-edge research, where graduate education focuses on instruction leading to a PhD.
We educate through research, with strong programs in the traditional areas of organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, as well as in interdisciplinary areas such as:
- Bioinorganic chemistry
- Bioorganic
- Biophysical
- Chemical physics
- Nanotechnology
- Organometallic
- Photochemistry
Collaboration between groups often leads to cross-disciplinary learning opportunities.
The department operates a wide variety of sophisticated research instrumentation, available 24 hours a day for use by students and faculty.
Financial Support
All PhD students in chemistry receive stipends at a level competitive with other top research institutions, as well as full tuition waivers.
Numerous distinguished fellowships also exist within the department and the University that recognize excellence in graduate work and supplement the base level of support.
See our apply to Rochester page for more information.
CBI Training Program
Graduate students in the chemical and biological sciences at the University of Rochester have the opportunity to participate in the NIH-funded Chemistry-Biology Interface (CBI) Training Program. Thirty faculty members from six departments and programs in the School of Arts & Sciences, Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Science, and School of Medicine and Dentistry serve as mentors to students participating in the program.
The overall goal of the program is to prepare predoctoral graduate students for productive and fulfilling careers in science. Activities in this program will help trainees develop skills needed in a range of careers in science, which includes scientific writing, giving effective presentations, and networking.
See the CBI website for more information.
A Safe, Welcoming and Supportive Environment for Graduate Study
The University is deeply committed to providing a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment for graduate students. We are taking steps to further strengthen that commitment. The CARE network—our nationally recognized program for confidentially receiving help with almost any academic, emotional, physical or social concern—has a staff member who is specifically dedicated to serving graduate students. Faculty, students, and trainees have established a Commission on Women and Gender Equity in Academia to conduct a broad review of the policies, procedures, and culture that affect women and LGBTQI individuals in the academic settings of the University. Our Ombudsperson Program for PhD candidates and post-doctoral fellows adds a layer of confidential and independent support for reporting inappropriate behavior or other concerns. Our goal is to provide a first-class research and training environment in which faculty, students and staff are united by mutual respect and the love of science. Find more resources and information on the University's Culture of Respect website or talk to our program coordinator if you have questions.
The Transition to Rochester Advisory Committee (TRAC) has developed a handbook (pdf) to help incoming scholars prepare for and adapt to living in Rochester while pursuing their research training in the Department of Chemistry. TRAC works within the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Outreach (DEIO) Committee. See our diversity, equity, and inclusion page to learn more about TRAC and other DEIO efforts.
More Information
For more information regarding our graduate program, please contact:
Emily Breitbart
Graduate Coordinator
Hutchison Hall 412
Phone: (585) 275-0635
ebreitba@ur.rochester.edu