Growth in world population and continual improvements in living standards in developing countries will increase demands for energy in the next 40 years, posing tremendous challenges for providing affordable energy.<br>Cornell University is committed to being a leader in the field of sustainable development. In addition to the Cornell Energy Systems Institute (CSEI), several Cornell Centers coordinate efforts in related research and education including the Cornell Center for a Sustainable Future and the Cornell Fuel Cell Institute. The Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering is a key part of those efforts. With a framework that includes physical, chemical, and biological energy transformations, transport of heat and mass in fluids and solids, materials for energy capture and storage, process analysis, design, and simulation, and full life cycle analysis of energy and mass flows, a chemical engineering education provides the ideal skill set for tackling a wide range of energy problems.<br>Degree candidates are expected to pursue study and research that will give them a deeper comprehension of the basic and applied sciences and will develop initiative, originality, and creative ability. The thesis or dissertation may involve either research or special projects in such subjects as design, economics, or mathematical analysis. There is no language requirement for students majoring in chemical engineering. The Smith School's Ph.D. in chemical engineering will prepare you for careers in academia and research. The program is completed in four to five years, and students typically receive full funding.