Chemistry Ph.D.

The Ph.D. program in chemistry provides you with the skills to tackle biological problems at the molecular level and become successful, independent scientists capable of addressing current societal challenges. Graduate students participate in faculty-mentored research and coursework that deepens their understanding of fundamental concepts in chemistry and physical chemistry, while also honing their ability to critically analyze published research. The curriculum includes topics such as the structure and function of biological molecules, enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways, nucleic acid chemistry and molecular biology.

Application fee waivers are available for the Biology PhD application. Please contact Tiffany%20Kells%20to obtain a waiver code before you begin your Graduate CAS application.

Program Information

The Ph.D. in Chemistry program will prepare you for leadership roles in scientific research and development while equipping you with advanced research skills and expertise sought after by academia, industry, and government sectors.

Degree

Doctorate

Academic Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Questions? Contact us!

Thomas Montgomery

Assistant Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry

Thomas Montgomery headshot
 

Research Faculty

You will conduct original research under the guidance of our faculty who bring expertise across a wide range of fields, including analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organometallic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry and theoretical chemistry. This research will demonstrate your ability to independently design, execute, and analyze complex experiments.

Jennifer Aitken, Ph.D.

Jennifer Aitken, Ph.D.

Inorganic Chemistry and Organometallic Chemistry

Michael Cascio, Ph.D.

Michael Cascio, Ph.D.

Biochemistry

Jeffrey Evanseck, Ph.D.

Jeffrey Evanseck, Ph.D.

Physical Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry

David Heisler, Ph.D.

David Heisler, Ph.D.

Biochemistry

Paul Lummis, Ph.D.

Paul Lummis, Ph.D.

Inorganic Chemistry and Organometallic Chemistry

Thomas Montgomery, Ph.D.

Thomas Montgomery, Ph.D.

Organic Chemistry

Michael Van Stipdonk, Ph.D.

Michael Van Stipdonk, Ph.D.

Analytical Chemistry

Recent Student Publications

Molecule Synthesis Breakthroughs

Alex Cocolas, Aiden Lane, Ben Musiak, Eric Chartier, Derek Bedillion, and Sarah Hejnosz have developed an innovative technique for the precise and efficient synthesis of complex molecules. Their research details a novel method for producing 43 distinct variants of 7-azanorbornanes. This approach utilizes specialized chemical compounds known as tertiary amine N-oxides and involves the substitution of alkenes, which are hydrocarbons with double bonds.

Advancing Uranium Chemistry

Samuel Lenze and Justin Terhorst’s publication,"Creation of Gas-Phase Organo-Uranium Species by Removal of 'yl' Oxo Ligands from UO₂²⺠Carboxylate Precursor Ions" focuses on uranium chemistry, how uranium ions can be manipulated and studied in controlled environments. By breaking down these ions, they’re discovering new insights into uranium's reactions and properties, contributing to advancements in nuclear science.

Decoding COVID-19

Caleb Frye and Caylee Cunningham’s publication, "Characterization of the SARS-CoV-2 Genome 3′-Untranslated Region Interactions with Host MicroRNAs" explores how the COVID-19 virus may manipulate our cellular mechanisms to better understand how it causes illness and how we can develop new treatments to combat it.

Mapping Protein Structures

Rathna Veeramachaneni, Chelsee Donelan, and Kayce Tomcho developed a method to map structural linkages in the human α1 glycine receptor (α1 GlyR), a protein essential for nerve cell communication. Using a reactive site, chemical linkers, and UV light, their work provides new insights into the protein’s structure within cell membranes.

Application Requirements & Financial Assistance

Financial Support for Graduate Students

As a Ph.D. student, you'll receive financial support to ensure you can focus on your research. Our financial support includes:

  1. Assistantships: All students receive support in the form of a Teaching Assistantship (TA) or a Research Assistantship (RA) in addition to a tuition waver.

  2. Stipend: Currently set at $28,000 per year (2024-25).

  3. Additional Benefits: In addition to the stipend, we offer subsidies for health insurance and parking permits.

  4. Duration of Support: Students in good standing typically receive financial support for five years, and you can also apply for one year of additional support.

Research assistantships (RA) are offered by labs that have external grant support that includes RA funding. More senior graduate students may apply for the prestigious Bayer Fellowship, a competitive RA stipend that recognizes exceptional accomplishments in the field.

Teaching Assistants (TA): As a Teaching Assistant, you'll play a pivotal role in supporting undergraduate education. This includes responsibilities such as managing laboratory sections, presenting pre-lab instructions, supervising lab activities, creating test materials, and conducting examinations. You'll be under the guidance of the faculty member leading the course, ensuring you gain valuable teaching experience.

Application Requirements

General Requirements:
  • Undergraduate Transcript
  • Personal Statement
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • GRE Scores (waived for 2023 applications)
Requirements for International Students:
  • TOEFL Score of 100, equivalent IELTS or DuoLingo scores are accepted
  • Transcript Evaluation (WES, others)

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people working in a lab

Research Facilities

To support your research endeavors, our program provides access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and research funding opportunities. Collaboration and engagement with the wider chemistry and biochemistry academic community are encouraged, allowing you to present your research at prestigious conferences and publish your findings in renowned scientific journals.

a city with bridges

Optimal Location

Â鶹ֱ²¥ is nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh, PA! A lively epicenter of biotechnology, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, fostering a dynamic environment for you to engage with industry leaders and opportunities.