Chemistry - Electrochemical Science and Technology MA, MS

Program Information

Program Description

Science and engineering undergraduates receive essentially no training in electrochemical science and technology despite its critical importance in clean-energy conversion/storage technologies, semiconductor-device fabrication, bio-electronics interfaces, and materials/chemical production.  The prevention of corrosion relies on controlling electrochemical processes. Electroplating is used broadly in industries to conformally coat objects and to purify/isolate metals. Battery, super-capacitor, electrolysis, and fuel cell energy storage/conversion technologies all rely on electrochemical science and engineering. Electrochemical sensors are routinely used in biomedical applications, with the most prominent example being the glucose sensor used by diabetics. Electrochemistry is increasingly being applied in organic synthesis in an effort to eliminate the use of highly reactive, dangerous, and expensive reagents. Electrochemical devices are used to measure and probe signals in neuroscience. There is need in established industries for competent scientists and engineers in the area of electrochemical technology.  

The Oregon Center for Electrochemistry’s masters-level internship program attracts chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering students and provides nationally unique training including rigorous foundational electrochemical theory, team- and inquiry-based laboratory work, numerical simulation and engineering of electrochemical systems, and experience tackling industry-sponsored, team research projects. Concepts in data analysis and statistical design of experiments (e.g. Python, JMP) are incorporated throughout the coursework. Electrochemical content is coupled with professional and communication skills development, as well as elective coursework focused on target career areas (materials science, bio-medicine, energy, etc.).  After 6 months of accelerated immersion coursework and a 9 month industry internship, graduates are ideal “T-shaped” employees that can tackle complex challenges facing engineered electrochemical systems using rigorous experiments, efficient data analytics, and computer models, while optimally working in team environments. Such graduates provide substantial value to industry as employees compared to the existing candidates who generally have little or incomplete training in electrochemical science and are often not adept at using modern experimental design, data analytics and computation tools.

Program Prerequisites

BS/BA in Chemistry/Biochemistry, Physics, Engineering, or related discipline (other majors, such as computer science or mathematics, could be appropriate, please discuss special situations with our team).   Research experience beneficial, but not required. GRE scores are not required.

Program Information  Faculty

Application at a Glance

Below you can find at-a-glance information about the components of this program’s application. Use the summary below as an overview of what to expect. Detailed application instructions are available on the program’s website.

UO Application Requirements

• Official Transcripts
• English Language Proficiency Requirement for International Applicants
• Financial Verification for International Applicants

Program-Specific Application Requirements

Required

• Interview via video conference
• Letters of Recommendation
• Resume
• Statement of Purpose
• Writing Sample

Optional

• GRE

Not Required

• GMAT
• LSAT

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