The program has a large and diverse faculty with strengths in
biophysical, bioinorganic, bioorganic, and biological chemistry;
solid-state and surface chemistry; and theoretical chemistry. In
addition, the faculty is grounded in the traditional disciplines of
analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. Members of the
chemistry faculty are engaged in a variety of research efforts with
researchers in other departments and other institutes at Rutgers and
with their colleagues at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
Interdisciplinary research has increased substantially in recent years
with the growth of several advanced technology centers on the
Rutgers-New Brunswick campuses. These include the Center for Advanced
Biotechnology and Medicine, the Center for Advanced Food Technology,
the Malcolm G. McLaren Center for Ceramic Research, the Fiber Optics
Research Center, and the Laboratory for Surface Modification.
Faculty and graduate student research is supported by in-house shop
facilities (machine, electronics, and glassblowing), a comprehensive
chemistry library, and a full range of state-of-the-art chemical
instruments. This equipment includes 300, 400, 500, and 600 MHz NMR
spectrometers with 2-D and 3-D-capabilities, 200 MHz NMR spectrometers
with solid-state capabilities, single- crystal and powder X-ray
diffractometers, macromolecular crystallization and imaging facilities,
ultrahigh vacuum surface analysis systems, and extensive laser and
calorimetric instrumentation. Computing facilities in the Wright-Rieman
Laboratories include several multiprocessor servers, a large array of
graphics workstations, PC-based workstations, presenter systems, video-
animation equipment, personal computers, X-terminals, and laser and
color printers.
The program for the master's degree requires a
minimum of 30 credits and either a critical essay or a thesis on some
research problem. The program for the Ph.D. degree requires a thesis
and an appropriate combination of course work and research credits. The
master of philosophy degree is available to doctoral candidates.
A Ph.D. candidate must complete a minimum of 15 credits of course work.
This phase includes 9 credits in his or her principal subfield of study
(biological, inorganic, organic, or physical chemistry) and 6 credits
chosen from among core courses in other subfields. The Ph.D. qualifying
examination consists of a series of written cumulative examinations and
the oral presentation and defense of a research proposal. There is no
language requirement.
A Ph.D. candidate must spend not less
than one academic year as a full-time student in residence. This
residence requirement may be waived in cases of outstanding
professional accomplishment and experience.
Most graduate
courses are scheduled in the late afternoon and early evening hours.
This enables students who are unable to attend classes during the day
because of employment restrictions to pursue an M.S. degree.
Teaching assistantships and fellowships are available for both
first-year and advanced graduate students, and virtually all full-time
doctoral students receive financial support. Teaching assistants spend
no more than six contact hours per week on their duties and normally
take 6 to 10 credits of graduate courses or research each term.
Fellowships normally do not entail special duties, and those who hold
them can devote their time to course work and to research related to
their Ph.D. dissertation. Further information on these and other
matters may be found in the Graduate Program in Chemistry, a brochure
available from the department.
