Department of Chemical & Petroleum Engineering
Engineering collage

Established in 1910 as the first petroleum engineering program in the world, the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering has spent more than a century at the forefront of the field. Today, 40-plus faculty, 20-plus laboratories and learning centers, and a dedicated staff support education and research that span energy, materials, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, sustainability, and beyond.

Our students build a strong foundation in the science of how matter and energy transform - then put it to work. Through hands-on research, co-op experiences, and coursework designed around real-world problems, they graduate ready to lead in industries ranging from chemicals and polymers to electronics, food science, and health care. With growing global demand for solutions in energy, the environment, and advanced manufacturing, chemical engineers from Pitt are prepared to meet the moment.

News

Susan Fullerton Shirey Named Interim Chair of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at Pitt

Susan Fullerton Shirey Named Interim Chair of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at Pitt

PITTSBURGH (August 24, 2026) ... Susan Fullerton Shirey has been named interim chair of the Department of Chemical and...

Chemical Processing Innovation Developed by Pitt and Lubrizol Recognized in 2025 Manufacturing USA Report to Congress

Chemical Processing Innovation Developed by Pitt and Lubrizol Recognized in 2025 Manufacturing USA Report to Congress

A University of Pittsburgh collaboration with Lubrizol, a global specialty chemical leader, was featured in the newly...

For Every Reaction, There’s an Action

For Every Reaction, There’s an Action

At first glance, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) Chem-E Car Competition may not seem that daunting:...

From Cleaner “Cracking” to Black Gold

From Cleaner “Cracking” to Black Gold

In Götz Veser’s lab at the University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering, then-PhD candidate Aime Laurent...

An Exponential Cascade, Upwards and Out

An Exponential Cascade, Upwards and Out

Just before submitting his application to the University of Pittsburgh, Jonathon (Jack) Bender changed his intended...

Events

Sep 21

National Postdoc Appreciation Week - Monday Kickoff with a Yoga and Wellness Session

Start the week on a calm note with a free morning yoga class. We hope to create a peaceful and meaningful space where...

Sep 21

National Postdoc Appreciation Week - Monday Munch & Mingle

Calling all hungry postdocs! Come get free snacks & mingle with your fellow postdocs. We'll have fresh fruit, juice,...

Sep 21

National Postdoc Appreciation Week - Monday Recreation Facilities Tour & Volleyball/Basketball

Get ready to discover your new favorite spot on campus! Join a UPPDA representative for a guided tour of Pitt's...

Sep 22

National Postdoc Appreciation Week - Tuesday Morning Blend

Start your morning with a warm cup and even warmer company. A relaxed coffee break to connect with fellow postdocs....

Sep 22

National Postdoc Appreciation Week - Tuesday Home Away From Home: Housing, Transition, & Community Support for Postdocs

Moving to a new city for a postdoc is exciting — and overwhelming. Join us for a webinar with SabbaticalHomes exploring...

Sep 22

National Postdoc Appreciation Week - Tuesday Snack O'Clock

Science is hard. Snacks help. Drop by for a midday break, refuel, and catch up with fellow postdocs who are also...