Research Overview
Chemical engineering education is at the threshold of significant changes, which have been brought about by recent advances in the life sciences, nanotechnology, and the energy challenge. As a result, we have targeted three fundamental research areas for emphasis in the next five years: Advanced Materials, Sustainable Energy, and Biomolecular Engineering.
» View these research thrusts and the associated faculty in a schematic diagram.
The Sustainable Energy Education and Research Center plays an important role in our overall research portfolio, and was targeted and funded based upon the department’s strategic plan. In addition, we have initiated significant interactions with joint institutes (UT-ORNL) in the areas of advanced materials, computational sciences, biological sciences, and neutron scattering.
Research Areas
Advanced Materials
A highly integrated experimental and multiscale modeling/simulation approach is utilized to engineer a broad range of materials with a desired micro- or nano-structure. Specific areas of interest include dynamics of complex fluids, such as polymeric and biological fluids, fiber suspensions, colloidal systems, as well as synthesis of functional nanoparticles and thin films. Learn more about advanced materials research.
Engineering of Soft Materials
Our research in this area is rational design and development of materials with unique structures, properties, and function.
Engineering of Functional and Structural Materials
Our research in this area is rational design and development of materials with unique structures, properties, and functions.
Computational Materials Science and Engineering
Our research includes multi-scale modeling and simulation of materials including polymer and polymer matrix composites.\
Biomolecular Engineering
Areas of research in biomolecular engineering include protein engineering to manipulate surface displayed proteins for elucidating molecular recognition in the immune response; experimental engineering of photosynthetic systems to biologically produce hydrogen; and experimental and computational analysis of cell biological phenomena. Learn more about biomolecular engineering research.
Computational Bioengineering and Biophysics Research
Apply theoretical and computational methods across scales to address physical, chemical, and biological phenomena.
Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering and Nanobiotechnology Research
The research seeks to understand and harness biological processes from molecular to cellular levels.
Systems and Synthetic Biology Research
The research seeks to understand and harness complex cellular systems for industrial biocatalysis and disease prevention.
Sustainable Energy
Areas of research in biomolecular engineering include protein engineering to manipulate surface displayed proteins for elucidating molecular recognition in the immune response; experimental engineering of photosynthetic systems to biologically produce hydrogen; and experimental and computational analysis of cell biological phenomena. Learn more about sustainable engineering research.
Biomass Based Products
We are exploring the principles of catalytic and biocatalytic conversion of biomass to biofuels, biochemicals and materials.
Materials for Energy Applications
Our program is focused on developing novel materials for energy harvesting, transport and storage, and conversion.
Energy Conversions and Storage
Our program is focused on understanding and optimizing engineering processes in electrochemical devices such as batteries.
Research Partners
In order to meet global challenges in health care, the environment, renewable energy sources, national security, and economic prosperity, the department has instituted innovative partnerships with Oak Ridge National Laboratory; local industry; and other disciplines at UT, such as medical, life, physical sciences, and business. Check out a full list of our partners.
Are You Seeking Research Opportunities?
Students can check out our faculty’s research interests to find a professor that specializes in your research interests. Email the faculty member(s) that you would like to do research for. Attach a resume that includes your current GPA. If you don’t hear back from them within a week, feel free to stop by their office.