Graduate Research

Graduate students at WPI are part of a large and thriving research community. They are often highly valued participants in faculty research projects; at leading research institutions, with important funding agencies; and with partner organizations around the world. That’s why employers are eager to find and connect with our graduate students. Because of the emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, they have the knowledge and the skills needed to attack complex problems from all angles.

Graduate and Professional Studies seeks an integrated campus where everyone feels a sense of belonging, where graduate students respect—and celebrate—differences and the complex identities of each member of our community. We celebrate diversity while working to advance equity on our campus and within STEM. See yourself here.

Support for Research

Graduate students have access to many types of support at all levels of their research. Resources, such as equipment usage, internal seed funding, and proposal support, help graduate students take their research to the next level. Learn more about resources for WPI researchers.

Meet Our Graduate Student Researchers

Heather LeClerc

Heather is pursuing a chemical engineering PhD with a focus on the fundamentals of catalytic hydrothermal liquefaction of food waste. She is a key researcher for a multi-year project to develop food waste into biodiesel.

Read more about Heather's graduate student experience

Mark Xatse

Mark’s passion for science and research in his PhD biochemistry program is enriched by his involvement in the WPI community.

Read more about Mark's graduate student experience

Karen Royer

Karen came to WPI to pursue her master's degree nearly 30 years after earning her first degree. As a research assistant in the Global Lab, she trains students, faculty, and staff in how to use the equipment to enhance their research and projects.

Read more about Karen's graduate student experience

"The labs have really fostered great collaborative research and it helps to be surrounded by great minds who are just as enthusiastic as you. The faculty members treat you as peers – they’re teaching you and developing you to be a leader in your field."

-PhD student alum, Melissa Mobley

Student Project

Empowering 5G by Enhancing Network Security and Performance

A student team used an open-source framework to simulate 5G environments to prepare for future testing of scenarios like jamming attacks on networks.

Graduate Research Innovation Exchange

The annual Graduate Research Innovation Exchange (GRIE) is a poster celebration and competition that highlights the breadth, diversity, and quality of WPI's graduate research. It is a two-part event consisting of an open poster exhibition and celebration and poster finals and awards. Graduate students are invited to participate. It is an opportunity for WPI students to share their research passions with the greater community.

Learn more

A photo of a faculty member in a labcoat using a pipette to add fluid to a pitri dish

Faculty Research

Meet the faculty researchers who have partnered with our graduate students

Discover the latest research news

Visit us today!

Guided Campus Tours

Explore the vibrant campus of Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and discover why it's the perfect place to pursue your academic and professional goals! Join us for an in-person campus tour and experience firsthand the innovative spirit, state-of-the-art facilities, and supportive community that make WPI unique. Your visit will be guided by one of our graduate student workers who is looking forward to answering any questions you may have. Whether you're interested in our renowned engineering programs or exploring new fields, a campus tour is the best way to envision your future at WPI. Sign up today and take the first step toward an exciting journey with us!