Future Leaders in Chemical Engineering is a highly selective research symposium that’s organized by the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at NC State University. The 1 day symposium is a platform for the finest and brightest undergraduate researchers in the U.S. to present their work and be recognized for their achievements and potential as future leaders in chemical and biomolecular engineering.

Check out the 2025 symposium flyer.

When and where is it?

The fifth annual research symposium was held on October 9-10, 2025 in Raleigh, NC. Dates for the 2026 symposium have not been announced yet.

When are applications due?

Applications are typically due in August. The application period for 2026 has not opened yet.

Who should apply?

Undergraduates majoring in chemical engineering (and related fields)* in the USA who have performed academic research and are within one year of graduation are eligible to apply (i.e. graduation by summer 2026).

*Includes, for example, Materials Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bioengineering students that are doing research related to Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.

Why participate?

• Students selected to participate will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the research symposium in Raleigh, NC.
• Participants will present their research in the form of 2-minute “soundbites” and a poster session.
• It is a unique opportunity to network with faculty and peers about state-of-the-art research.
• All selected students will receive a plaque recognizing their participation.

Sponsors

We thank the generous support of the NC State Graduate School, CBE, College of Engineering, and Eastman Chemical Company.

Questions?

Email us at che-futureleaders@ncsu.edu if you have questions or want to learn more.