Contents:
Key aspects of the program
The transition to alternative, renewable energy sources is a major trend these days – $1.1 trillion was invested into green energy globally in 2022 alone. This trend is supported by the climate agenda, as well as the lowering costs of green energy.
Such a transition would be impossible without green chemistry, which deals with improving the underlying chemical processes and decreasing the environmental footprint of the industry.
Green chemistry targets three main objectives: the development of new synthesis methods; the creation of renewable raw materials and energy sources; and the substitution of conventional organic solvents with safer counterparts.
Efficient development of solutions for these tasks requires training in the chemical conversion of alternatively-sourced energy, synthesis of new materials (catalysts, sorbents, membranes, etc.), and development of cutting-edge technologies for the oil and gas industry. ITMO’s new Master’s program, Sustainable Chemistry For Energy Technologies, will teach specialists in all of these fields.
As the program will be implemented in English, graduates will be able to apply their skills in Russia and around the world. Moreover, they will have the opportunity to complete an exchange semester in India, Brazil, or China – for instance, at Huazhong University of Science and Technology.
Some of the program’s other benefits include a module-based curriculum with a focus on practical training; the opportunity to attend academic writing classes taught by native English speakers; and the chance to work at the university, gaining valuable experience alongside full-time studies.
Credit: ITMO.NEWS
Program curriculum
The Master’s program is aimed at chemists and engineers, including those specializing in biotechnology. Over the course of two years, students will immerse themselves in green energy-related research projects and develop their own industrial solutions with support from Gazprom Neft and Tatneft. Students will also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while interning at these companies.
At the program, students will learn to apply chemical methods to improve existing and develop new energy sources and production technologies. For instance, there will be opportunities to develop electrochemical and electrocatalytic methods for the transformation of carbon dioxide and biomass into biofuel and chemical compounds; assemble prototypes of new chemical batteries and power cells; and suggest new additive technology materials for the oil and gas sector.
Energy-efficient electrochemical reactions will make it possible to produce substances with high added value and cut down on the negative effects of common environmental pollutants and greenhouse gasses. Such electrochemical synthesis has the potential to be implemented on an industry-wide scale – creating facilities that will transform harmful emissions into energy. These solutions are in-demand globally as they make use of green energy (produced by wind, water, or sunlight) or turn it into new compounds.
“Thanks to the university’s collaboration with major industrial partners, we are able to provide our students with truly practice-oriented training. They will be able to go all the way from fundamental research to prototyping and developing technologies for the real economy sector,” says Pavel Krivoshapkin, the head of the program.
Pavel Krivoshapkin. Photo by ITMO.NEWS
Career prospects
Having completed the program, graduates will be able to work as chemical engineers, lead engineers, project managers, and occupy related positions at R&D departments of industrial companies. Another trajectory after graduation will be a career in academia in Russia and abroad, the key research areas being chemical technologies, alternative energy sources, and smart materials. Alternatively, graduates may also choose to turn their research project into a startup they can bring to the market or implement at a company.
Credit: ITMO.NEWS
Enrollment opportunities
Prospective students should have experience with physical and chemical research methods, have a good command of English (B1 being the minimal requirement), as well as know how to write scientific articles and abstracts and have experience of presenting their work at conferences.
Prospective students can enroll in one of the following ways:
- entrance exam and interview (in Russian or English);
- ITMO’s Portfolio Contest;
- through competitions: I am a Professional, It’s Your Call!, ITMO’s Mega Contest, the Congress of Young Scientists, SCAMT Workshop Week, or GreenTech Start.
