Graduate Students

With over ten active faculty in theoretical chemistry, the UCI chemistry graduate program is one of the top destinations for theory-minded students from all over the world. Our program offers a graduate track in theoretical chemistry, which includes a variety of elective and special topics courses. Or, if you like theoretical chemistry but prefer a PhD in Physics, you can join UCI’s interdisciplinary ChaMP program. All students in good academic standing will be fully supported throughout their graduate career at UCI.

Getting a PhD in our group means that you will become a developer of electronic structure methods, in addition to being an expert user. A significant fraction of our alumni move on to academic positions, but there is also a growing need for theoretical chemists in government and industry, including large chemical and software companies.

All graduate students need to apply to the department’s graduate program. International students may apply as well but should be aware of the additional language requirements for TA eligibility (which is required for full support). Previous research experience in theoretical chemistry is recommended but not required. Please check the department website for more details.

Undergraduate Students

Are you a UCI undergraduate looking for research experience in theoretical chemistry (Chem 180)? If you like quantum mechanics and want to know why it matters for understanding chemistry, then you’re in the right spot. You don’t need to be majoring in chemistry, but basic knowledge in quantum mechanics and physical chemistry is highly recommended, and experience with UNIX would be really helpful. If you are a chemistry major, consider taking a look at the Theoretical and Computational Chemistry and Quantum Science (TCCQS) concentration. We also recommend enrolling in Chem 150 Computational Chemistry and Chem 150L Computational Chemistry Laboratory to learn more about the subject and to get hands-on experience running computational experiments. Please contact Professor Furche if you are interested.

We also have attractive opportunities for undergraduate research internships during the summer. Check out UCI’s REU Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship program first. This prestigious program offers a $4000 stipend, free on-campus housing, a travel allowance for outside students and many other benefits. You will work on a well-defined project in one of our research areas. One completed course in quantum chemistry or previous research experience in theoretical/computational chemistry is recommended but not required. Students from underrepresented minorities or economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply. UCI students should consider applying for a UROP fellowship.

Postdocs

Although there are currently no open positions for postdoctoral associates in our group, interested candidates are encouraged to apply for the Eddleman Quantum Institute (EQI) Postdoctoral Fellowship here.

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