Future Students

The Bredesen Center provides a one-of-a-kind PhD opportunity that makes our graduates highly-competitive in areas of national need. Bring your ideas to make a Big Impact.

Through our three PhD programs, students work with world-renowned Oak Ridge National Laboratory and University of Tennessee researchers to advance scientific discoveries and technical breakthroughs that drive our world forward.

PhD applicants are offered full tuition waivers, health insurance, and competitive stipends. To encourage finding the perfect mentor for students, the Bredesen Center does not require incoming graduate students to have a mentor their first year.

Apply

Ready to Join Us?

Want to join us on Rocky Top? Fill out an application and start your journey today.

Apply Now

Data Science & Engineering (DSE)

Dive into cutting-edge research that intersects with all aspects of science. Apply foundational math and computer science skills to inform innovation in fields of national security, transportation, life sciences, energy, and materials science.

Learn More

Energy Science & Engineering (ESE)

Build the pathways to energy generation, efficiency, and stability. Bring your diverse background to discover innovation in electric and chemical storage systems, manufacturing, grid storage, environmental and climate sciences, and more.

Learn More

Genome Science & Technology (GST)

Uncover the mechanisms needed to answer complex biological questions. Enhance your skills using world-leading facilities to impact fields of genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, and systems biology and biotechnology.

Learn More

Program Highlights

Full tuition waiver
Competitive stipend
Health insurance
Help finding your perfect mentor at ORNL or UT
Professional development opportunities

Want to Learn More? Meet us at a webinar!

Connect with Us

Discover your new home on Rocky Top. Explore Tours at the University of Tennessee and Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Discover East Tennessee