ENGINEER SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS. ADVANCE YOUR CAREER.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering (BAE) degree prepares students to develop sustainable engineering solutions for global challenges in agriculture, energy, and the environment.

Dr. Tiffany Messer's research team grows tubs of plants to trace contaminants in water

In the PhD program, you’ll tackle real-world agricultural and environmental challenges through advanced coursework, hands-on learning, and cutting-edge research. By integrating engineering and biological sciences, you’ll design innovative systems and technologies that promote sustainability and improve human, animal, and environmental health.

This research-intensive program is tailored to each student’s interests and career goals and is developed in consultation with a faculty advisory committee. Students must demonstrate deep expertise in their field through the successful completion of advanced coursework, comprehensive exams and the presentation of original research in a scholarly dissertation.

As a PhD student, you’ll collaborate across disciplines, engage in impactful research, and connect with industry partners, preparing you to lead in a wide range of engineering careers in academia, government, industry, public, private, or non-profit sector.

Careers

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering degree will prepare you for dynamic careers in a wide range of professions.

  • Biopharma scientist
  • Biofuels engineer
  • Distillation process engineer
  • Environmental engineer
  • Firmware engineer
  • Food engineer
  • Quality assurance manager
  • Manufacturing engineer
  • Research and development engineer
  • Stream restoration design engineer

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Ready to apply? Start by contacting the Director of Graduate Studies for the program of interest to learn about specific requirements. To be eligible for unconditional admission, you must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited engineering program and from a fully accredited U.S. institution or recognized foreign institution, have a bachelor’s GPA of at least 2.8 on 4.0 scale, a 3.2 on all graduate work, and proof of English language proficiency.

THE BAE COMMUNITY

Graduate students in the PhD program are part of a dynamic and forward-thinking community where innovation and impact go hand in hand. Surrounded by faculty who are passionate about mentoring and discovery, students are inspired to push boundaries, tackle real-world challenges, and grow as leaders in biosystems and agricultural engineering. Whether advancing sustainable technologies, improving food systems, or protecting natural resources, students are empowered to turn their ideas into action and their passions into purpose.

Three students work in a lab
Dr. Michael Sama conducts scans of a soybean research plot with a drone

RESEARCH FACILITIES

As a PhD student, you’ll have access to over 36,000 square feet of advanced research space, including 20 specialized labs focused on bioprocessing, water quality, precision agriculture, and more. Facilities feature cutting-edge tools for electronics, fabrication, and wet chemistry, along with field research opportunities at university farms, giving you the hands-on experience to turn ideas into impactful solutions.

GRADUATE SUPPORT AND OPPORTUNITIES

Graduate students benefit from a vibrant academic environment designed to support their success and fuel their ambitions. Our program provides students with the resources and encouragement to pursue bold ideas, shape their futures, and make a meaningful impact.

Funding Options

Explore opportunities to fund your graduate education through assistantships (research, teaching, or graduate) and fellowships.

Graduate Certificates

Discover a great way to enhance your graduate degree program by adding specialized, career-focused expertise.

Student Organizations

Enrich your graduate experience both academically and socially by joining one of the university’s many graduate student organizations.

Professional Enhancement

Foster your personal and professional growth in career preparedness, research, teaching, and wellness through supportive and collaborative programming and networking.

Ready to turn your passion into a career?

Explore endless opportunities at the University of Kentucky and take the first step toward your future.

Senior Lecturer
Alicia Modenbach, PhD, PE

Director of Graduate Studies
Michael Sama, PhD, PE