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 graduate wins Rath Award for solar cell research
The honor, which recognizes the Colorado School of Mines doctoral graduate whose thesis demonstrates the greatest potential for societal impact, was presented during Fall 2022 Graduate Commencement on … - Mines faculty member receives Scialog funding for bioimaging project
Kevin Cash, associate professor of chemical and biological engineering at Colorado School of Mines, is among the 21 early career researchers on 10 multidisciplinary teams to receive funding through Sc … - GEFI Innov8x Challenge showcases Mines student ideas on the future of energy
An efficient ammonia fuel reformer for the decarbonization of heavy industry was the winner of the first-ever Mines Global Energy Future Initiative Innov8x Challenge. - Faculty Awards honor 9 Mines professors for teaching, research, mentorship
The Office of Academic Affairs at Colorado School of Mines is proud to announce the winners of the 2021-2022 Faculty Awards for excellence in teaching, research and mentorship.