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Earn your Ph.D. in Macromolecular Science and Engineering (MACR)

Developing the Next Generation of Scientists and Engineers

A woman operates a computer beside a laboratory instrument.
Tiffany Thompson, MACR Ph.D. Student

A critical part of MII’s mission statement states:

…We are committed to fostering a dynamic environment that enthusiastically promotes the recruitment and education of high-quality students…

As such, MII has devoted attention to the education and professional development of undergraduate and graduate students. On campus we have earned a reputation for reserving, on average, more than 40% of our funding to student development. Off-campus, our alumni have earned a reputation for strong academic training, broad interdisciplinary skills, and good communication capabilities. Since 1982, we have graduated more than 400 students. We currently graduate an average of 35 graduate students per year with an aim to increase this to 60 over the next few years.

MII offers several funding and award opportunities to students.

MACR Degree Program

The Macromolecular Science and Engineering (MACR) graduate degree is a university-based interdisciplinary degree program spanning multiple departments, with research and classes conducted under the direction of faculty from:

  • Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Chemistry
  • Civil and Environmental Engineering
  • Materials Science and Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Sustainable Biomaterials

Students may design their programs of study to focus in one (or more) of the following areas:

  • Polymer mechanics
  • Polymers in medicine and biology
  • Polymer processing
  • Polymer structure
  • Polymer synthesis
  • Adhesion and surface science
  • Composites and structures
  • Micro- and opto- electronics

Virginia Tech GSSPC

The Graduate Student Symposium Planning Committee (GSSPC) was developed by the American Chemical Society (ACS) Division of Chemical Education (CHED) for students to contribute to the ACS National Meeting by providing an exceptional atmosphere of learning and networking through a student organized symposium. A GSSPC comprised of 6-8 students is selected for each national ACS meeting and tasked with generating a unique symposium theme and organizing the entire event, including fundraising speaker recruitment, and logistical arrangements. Additionally, the GSSPC is charged with ensuring the continuation of the GSSPC by recruiting and mentoring a successive group of graduate students.

Several MACR and MII-affiliated students serve on the committee or are members of this organization. For more information, please visit their website.

Contact Us

Director, MACR Program

Michael Bortner, Ph.D.

MACR Graduate Degree Administrator

Kim Felix

Mailing Address:
Macromolecular Science and Engineering (0201)
Virginia Tech
ICTAS II, Suite 130
1075 Life Science Circle
Blacksburg, VA 24061 


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