Department of Chemistry
![Chem 111 students](https://ecos-appdev-production.s3.amazonaws.com/science_site/s3fs-public/styles/p_2_col_content_block_image/public/2023-11/img_3579.jpg?h=6140f932&itok=f8thgwPF)
We provide a program that’s flexible enough to meet your specific interests. Through research and co-op opportunities, you’ll put your classroom knowledge into practice to prepare for a wide range of careers.
![hodges lab](https://ecos-appdev-production.s3.amazonaws.com/science_site/s3fs-public/styles/p_2_col_content_block_image/public/2023-10/hodgeslab1.jpeg?h=c2d2192d&itok=Jv7x_fFV)
Our graduate program boasts a unique educational opportunity, allowing students substantial flexibility in developing a Ph.D. experience uniquely suited to their personal interests and goals.
Chemistry Research Areas
We offer dynamic research environments that combine specialities to address pressing challenges.
![kuo lab 2022](https://ecos-appdev-production.s3.amazonaws.com/science_site/s3fs-public/styles/p_content_tout/public/2022-11/kuo_lab_1.png?h=33f0b648&itok=6aVVJsyS)
Research Facilities
The department’s cutting-edge research facilities offer faculty and students powerful tools for innovation.
![chemistry lan](https://ecos-appdev-production.s3.amazonaws.com/science_site/s3fs-public/styles/p_content_tout/public/2024-03/img_8037.jpg?h=2e2f84b5&itok=hajCKnmM)
University Institutes and Centers
Our interdisciplinary institutes and centers strengthen our research offering across the university.
![nmr facility](https://ecos-appdev-production.s3.amazonaws.com/science_site/s3fs-public/styles/p_content_tout/public/2022-12/img_5135.jpg?h=46ebcea9&itok=E601fotv)
News from around the department
![](https://ecos-appdev-production.s3.amazonaws.com/science_site/s3fs-public/styles/story_grid_block/public/2024-02/benkovicstephen-portrait-1.jpg?h=a3bf8c7c&itok=g06YBmJC)
Proposal approved to rename the Chemistry Building to Benkovic Building to honor Stephen and Pat Benkovic's impact on Penn State.
![](https://ecos-appdev-production.s3.amazonaws.com/science_site/s3fs-public/styles/story_grid_block/public/2024-03/2024kenknappenbergerportrait2000_3000.jpg?h=5dbcc3f9&itok=JpHGj7OM)
Kenneth Knappenberger Jr., professor of chemistry, has been named the new head of the Penn State Department of Chemistry.
![](https://ecos-appdev-production.s3.amazonaws.com/science_site/s3fs-public/styles/story_grid_block/public/2023-02/deniseokaforblackinstem-1.png?h=3f11aeeb&itok=eFycHzC6)
Denise Okafor has been named by Research Corporation for Science Advancement as a recipient of its 2024 Cottrell Scholar Awards.
Follow the Department of Chemistry
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April 26, 9:30 am - April 26, 12:00 pm