
About
Materials science and engineering at UC Santa Cruz focuses on the discovery and study of new materials for applications in future sustainable technologies. Our faculty and students engage in cutting-edge research to address the needs of today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape.

Sustainable innovations
Sustainability is at the core of our work — we are dedicated to accelerating the acquisition of fundamental knowledge and workforce training required to develop new materials for sustainable technologies, including innovations in energy-efficient electronics, efficient light-harvesting energy sources and energy storage devices.

Materials with impact
Beyond understanding fundamental properties of complex natural systems, MSE plays a crucial role in improving lives by advancing the development of cutting-edge electronic, optical, magnetoelectronic, and bioelectronic devices.

Shaping career success
Students in our program benefit from immersive learning experiences within world-class research groups. Through collaboration with faculty and industry partners, our students gain experience and skills needed to meet real-world challenges in the field — contributing to UCSC’s legacy of environmental stewardship and interdisciplinary collaboration.