Research

Redefining What’s Possible

Materials research teams are revolutionizing global solutions through bold cross-disciplinary collaboration and innovation.

Our Research Impact

Faculty and students of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at The Grainger College of Engineering are pioneering transformative materials that bridge fundamental science and pressing real-world problems. From quantum materials powering tomorrow's computing to advanced therapeutics transforming cancer treatment, our materials research transcends traditional boundaries to create solutions with immediate global impact.

Cutting-Edge Facilities

Our world-class infrastructure — featuring advanced characterization, fabrication and testing capabilities — propels materials innovation beyond conventional limits. Students work alongside renowned materials faculty using cutting-edge tools that define the future of engineered materials, from advanced microscopy to computational systems that simulate tomorrow's materials even before they exist. Visit our facilities

Where Innovation Meets Impact

Explore the six transformative areas driving materials research excellence.

Advanced Manufacturing

Breakthroughs in 3D printing, polymerization processing and semiconductor development are transforming manufacturing processes. Our research teams are enhancing the strength, reliability and sustainability of essential materials for applications in construction, energy systems and high-performance electronics.

Data-Driven Materials Discovery

Advances in data science and machine learning are revolutionizing materials science and engineering research. By integrating artificial intelligence with high-throughput experimentation and computation, our research teams are transforming materials discovery and innovation, reducing development cycles from decades to months.

Energy and the Environment

Advancements in sustainable materials and energy storage technologies are driving the global transition to clean energy. At the forefront of this transformation, our research teams are developing solutions for a carbon-neutral future. From advanced batteries to green hydrogen production, we're turning breakthrough concepts into practical, real-world applications.

Electronics and Communications

Materials are at the core of modern electronics and communications. Through advancements in high-performance semiconductors, nanomaterials and quantum systems, our research teams are revolutionizing the way devices process, connect and communicate. Our work is driving the development of smaller, faster and more efficient devices than ever before.

Health and Medicine

Our research teams are at the forefront of transforming healthcare through innovations in biomaterials engineering and molecular design. From next-generation vaccines and targeted drug delivery systems to smart medical implants and tissue engineering, their work is paving the way for more personalized medicine and improved patient outcomes.

Infrastructure and Extreme Conditions

From bridges and buildings to space exploration and nuclear energy, our research teams are developing advanced materials that resist environmental degradation and endure under extreme conditions. By combining cutting-edge material durability with environmental testing and computational modeling, we are creating innovative solutions that not only redefine structural possibilities but also ensure long-term resilience and sustainability across applications.

World-leading materials experts

Our internationally recognized faculty not only guide students through rigorous coursework but provide direct mentorship in cutting-edge research laboratories, creating personalized pathways to industry leadership, breakthrough innovations and academic excellence in materials science and engineering.

Meet our Faculty