Department of Chemical
and Biological Engineering
From its inception at Colorado School of Mines in 1944, the Chemical and Biological Engineering Department has focused on education and basic and applied research aimed at problems of national interest. Our undergrads pursue degrees that are consistently shown to have some of the highest lifetime returns on investment for a public US university in an engineering department that is unique in that it delivers freshman biology in a state-of-the-art studio environment.
Want to know what makes a great department?
Our 75-year history was written and composed from student and faculty interviews, surveys of the Oredigger yearbook and commencement bulletins, department records, and registrar data, among other sources. The book can be found under our department history tab or by clicking here.
Excellent teaching, cutting-edge research
Our curriculum offers increased flexibility in elective options and provides optional specialty tracks in Process Engineering and Biological Engineering for those who want to focus their degree.
In addition, we maintain a high-quality, well-funded research program ($7-8 million per year in research awards) with strong participation from students at both graduate and undergraduate levels. About 80 graduate and postdoctoral students study within a broad research menu, including major programs in conventional and renewable energy, soft materials and biotechnology, catalysis and separations, simulation and modeling and pedagogy with top-notch faculty, including one PECASE award winner and seven NSF CAREER Award winners.
These research and educational activities take place in one of the most scenic locations in the United States. With over 300 days per year of sunshine and the proximity to Denver and the Rocky Mountains, this area provides a combination of year-round cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities that are virtually unmatched anywhere.
Chemical & Biological Engineering Newsletter
Stay up-to-date with the most recent news
News
- Chemical Engineering PhD wins Fall 2025 Rath Research Award at Graduate Commencement
Award-winning research advances next-generation computer chips with atomic-scale plasma etching innovations. - Lessons from a Mines alum’s path to leadership in a dynamic energy landscape
Crystal Heter ’99 reflects on leadership roles in the energy industry and lessons for future Mines leaders. - Chemical and biological engineering faculty win NIH grants for early career investigators
Colorado School of Mines faculty win NIH MIRA grants to explore protein complexes and immune response, advancing innovation in biological and medical research. - Two Mines students honored with Goldwater Scholarships
Caitlyn Castellion and Marco Salgado among 441 students nationwide chosen for the competitive scholarship program