Message from the Chair

Prof. Hemant P. Pendse
Prof. Hemant P. Pendse

Welcome to the website for the UMaine Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering. You may have noticed that the department has gone through a name change in 2017-18 academic year. In fact, much of our recent good news involves changes – new people, evolving programs, and a growing mission.

As we prepare to welcome high school graduates who were born in the 21st century in Fall 2018 semester, we have proactively chosen to expand and modify our course offerings, teaching and support personnel, facilities, research, and outreach activities. Of our 17 faculty members, seven have joined the department in the last two and a half years. These new faculty members have developed new courses, new linkages with industry and other partners, and new research programs.

In our chemical engineering program we have focused on opportunities for conversion of two of Maine’s key natural resources, sustainably harvested renewable woody biomass and seaweed, into fuels, chemicals, and advanced materials.  We are building on our core expertise in catalysis, surface science, and process development.

In our biomedical engineering program we focus on bioinstrumentation, biomaterials, and bio-imaging.  Our core expertise includes nano-biomarkers, microscopies/spectroscopies, biointerfaces, and bioinspired or sourced engineering materials or structures.

Both programs attract outstanding students, and we are committed to preparing our students to competitively seek a broad range of traditional and non-traditional careers. We are well equipped to address the needs of a diverse portfolio of paper, specialty chemicals, advanced materials, biomedical devices, and clinical and diagnostic techniques. Our program is configured to allow students to benefit from opportunities for CoOps and internships as well as prototyping and research experiences, all within a four-year graduation timeline. We rely on continuous engagement with hands-on activities and team work to enhance the quality of the educational experience.

Hemant P. Pendse
Department Chair
207.581.2290
207.581.2323
pendse@maine.edu