Graduate Programs
Graduate study in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Auburn University provides rigorous training in modern chemical research. Students pursue master’s and doctoral degrees while working alongside faculty mentors on projects that span the molecular sciences, from fundamental chemical theory to applied research in energy, materials and biological systems.
Through a combination of coursework, laboratory research and professional development, graduate students develop the skills needed to succeed in academic, industrial and government research careers.
Why Study Chemistry at Auburn?
The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry offers a collaborative and supportive environment where graduate students work alongside faculty engaged in innovative research across the molecular sciences. Faculty maintain active research programs spanning multiple areas of chemistry and biochemistry, creating opportunities for students to pursue interdisciplinary work and contribute to new discoveries.
Graduate students benefit from access to modern research facilities and advanced instrumentation that support both experimental and computational research. The department maintains strong collaborative connections across Auburn University in areas such as materials science, engineering, biology and biomedical sciences, allowing students to work across traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Students typically work in small research groups where they receive close mentorship from faculty advisors while developing both research expertise and professional skills. Through a combination of research, teaching and collaborative work, graduate students gain the experience needed to pursue successful careers in research, industry and higher education.
Research & Training Opportunities
Graduate students in the department participate in research programs that span a wide range of topics across the chemical sciences. Faculty research addresses problems in areas such as molecular synthesis, catalysis, chemical biology, spectroscopy, computational chemistry, energy conversion, materials science and analytical detection.
Students gain hands-on experience with modern research techniques and advanced instrumentation while contributing to original research projects within faculty laboratories. Many graduate students present their work at national and international conferences and publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals.
In addition to research training, graduate students often gain valuable teaching experience through instructional assistantships that support undergraduate laboratory and lecture courses.
Funding & Assistantships
Most graduate students in the department receive financial support through teaching assistantships or research assistantships. These appointments typically provide a competitive stipend and tuition support while also offering opportunities for professional development in teaching and research.
Teaching assistantships allow students to gain experience supporting undergraduate instruction, while research assistantships enable students to focus more fully on laboratory research within their faculty advisor’s research group.
How to Apply
Prospective students interested in graduate study in chemistry or biochemistry at Auburn University should submit an application through the Auburn University Graduate School. Applicants are typically asked to provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation and a personal statement describing their research interests and goals, along with any additional materials required by the Graduate School.
Applicants are encouraged to explore the department’s research areas and identify potential faculty mentors whose research aligns with their interests.
