Driven by curiosity. Driving changeAbout us
The Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CEB) brings together scientists, engineers, students and professional staff who share a common goal – using fundamental science to solve real-world challenges.
About the department
Our research and teaching span engineering, chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics, creating an environment where different disciplines come together to tackle complex problems.
From sustainable manufacturing and energy systems to biotechnology and healthcare technologies, we combine curiosity-driven discovery with a focus on impact.
Located on the West Cambridge site, in between our neighbours at the Department of Material Science and Metallergy and the Institute of Manufacturing, we are home to a vibrant and international community working at the forefront of science and engineering.
Professor Clemens Kaminski, Head of Department, shares our vision in this video
Driven by curiosity, driving change
By the numbers
31 academic staff
22 research groups
47 postdoctoral researchers
125 PhD students
28 MPhil students
236 undergraduate students
60 professional services and technical staff
More than 15 nationalities represented across our community
~£15 million annual research income
What we do
Our work spans chemical engineering and biotechnology, with research and teaching that connect fundamental science with real-world application.
Our research addresses challenges including sustainable energy systems, advanced manufacturing, synthetic biology, bioprocessing, molecular engineering and healthcare technologies. These areas are united by a focus on understanding complex systems and developing practical solutions.
Research sits at the centre of the Department. It shapes our teaching, informs our collaborations and drives our contribution to science and society.
Our undergraduate and postgraduate courses, doctoral training and research programmes equip students and researchers with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle global challenges such as climate change, sustainable manufacturing, energy security and accessible healthcare.
Our community
We welcome staff and students from around the world and value the diversity of experience, background and perspective this brings.
Collaboration is central to how we work. By bringing together different disciplines and approaches, we create an environment where ideas develop and evolve.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can contribute and develop. This commitment is reflected in our Athena Swan award and our ongoing work in equality, diversity and inclusion across the Department.
→ Learn more about equality, diversity and inclusion
Sustainability in practice
Sustainability is central to our research and embedded in how we operate as a Department.
Alongside research that addresses global environmental challenges, we are working to reduce the environmental impact of our own activities across laboratories, offices and shared facilities.
Our laboratories participate in the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF), supporting research groups to adopt more sustainable practices while maintaining high standards of research and safety.
These efforts have been recognised across the University, including a nomination at the Environmental Sustainability Showcase and Awards 2026, which highlights practical action to reduce environmental impact and embed sustainability into everyday operations.
Explore CEB
Research
Discover the research taking place across the Department and the challenges our researchers are helping to address.
→ Explore our research
Work with us
Find opportunities across academic, research, technical and professional services roles and apply to join the CEB community.
→ Search for vacancies
Meet our academics
Meet the academic staff leading research and teaching across the Department, and find out more about their work.
→ Academic staff directory
Facilities
Discover the laboratories, equipment and spaces that support research and learning, including our Makerspace.
→ Explore our facilities
Alumni
Our alumni community spans academia, industry, healthcare, government and entrepreneurship across the world.
→ Join our alumni
History
Learn about the Department’s development since 1946 and the people who have shaped its work.