As the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering prepares for the 2026–2027 academic year, it is pleased to announce its academic leadership team for the coming year.
On the undergraduate side, Walter Chapman will continue as Director of Undergraduate Studies, overseeing the department’s undergraduate academic experience and curriculum. Joining him in a new leadership role, Lucas Camargo has been appointed Associate Co-Director of Undergraduate Studies, further strengthening student support and program development for ChBE undergraduates engineers.
Leading the department’s graduate education efforts, Rafael Verduzco has been appointed Director of Graduate Studies, where he will oversee the department’s Ph.D. and graduate academic programs while continuing to support student success and academic innovation. Tom Senftle will continue as Graduate Admissions Chair.
Within the department’s Master of Chemical Engineering (MCHE) program, Marya Cokar has stepped into the role of Program Director, bringing new leadership to the growing master’s program. Rafael Verduzco will continue to serve as Co-Director, ensuring continued collaboration and strategic growth for the program.
The department also continues its leadership within the Master of Energy Transition and Sustainability (METS) program, where Michael Wong will remain Co-Director, helping guide one of Rice Engineering and Computing’s interdisciplinary academic offerings focused on the future of sustainable energy.
“I am grateful to these colleagues for their willingness to lead and for the care and energy they bring to our students and academic programs,” said Lisa Biswal, chair of the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. “Their leadership will be essential as we continue to strengthen the student experience and advance the department’s goals. Together, these appointments reflect the department’s ongoing investment in academic excellence and its dedication to providing exceptional educational experiences across every stage of the student journey.”
The department looks forward to the contributions these faculty leaders will make in shaping the future of chemical and biomolecular engineering education at Rice.