Dr. Chapman’s research group uses tools such as molecular simulation, computer visualization, statistical mechanics, and NMR to discover how material properties and structure depend on molecular forces. Professor Chapman’s present research program focuses polymer solutions and blends, associating fluids, confined fluids, natural gas hydrates and asphaltenes.

Professor Walter G. Chapman is the William W. Akers Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, the Director of the Energy and Environmental Systems Institute and Associate Dean for Energy Research at Rice University. Among his recognitions are multiple teaching awards and an Outstanding Young Alumni Award from Clemson University where he received his B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering in 1983. He was awarded his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University in 1988. After spending two years as a Research Engineer with Shell Development Company, he joined the Rice faculty in 1990. In 2011, Dr. Chapman received the George R. Brown School of Engineering Award for Superior Teaching. Professor Chapman's research into properties and interfacial structure of complex fluids has applications in the energy and high performance materials industries.