Chemical and biological engineers use concepts from the biological sciences to inspire and guide the development and production of chemicals, pharmaceuticals and advanced biomaterials. They develop technologies like those used in X­rays, ultrasounds, EKGs and the thousands of high­-tech procedures and devices that diagnose conditions, sustain health and fight disease. Chemical and biological engineers are also involved in developing methods to spur the growth and regeneration of tissues, radiation treatments that fight cancer and/or incubators that keep premature babies alive. Outside the world of medicine, graduates contribute to the health of the planet by developing better technology for alternative energy, agriculture and environmental science. They are also well prepared for medical or graduate school, and advanced degrees leading to careers in research and development. The undergraduate program in chemical and biological engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder emphasizes open­-ended problems, computer applications and undergraduate research. It is characterized by a high degree of faculty­-student interactions, both inside and outside the classroom. More than half of undergraduate students participate in research in biotechnology, biomedical and tissue engineering and pharmaceutical engineering. The department also features a well­-established co-­op program, which allows students to gain professional experience and often leads to job offers. In addition to the standard chemical and biological engineering degree program, a pre­-medicine curriculum is also defined. Students can gain professional exposure through student chapters of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and the Biomedical Engineering Society on campus. Undergraduate students are encouraged to pursue research opportunities through independent study, the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program, the Discovery Learning Apprenticeship program or research assistantships with faculty. The department offers a senior thesis option as well as a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) summer program sponsored by the National Science Foundation.

Career in related fields.