NC State University’s Department of Wood and Paper Science (WPS) is home to one of the oldest and most respected paper science and engineering programs in the world. We also support a nationally recognized wood products program with a long history if supporting wood manufacturing industries, sustainable housing and their surrounding communities, as well as a fast-growing forest biomaterials and bioenergy area, which examines the production of novel biomass resources, and develops the chemical science and engineering technology for the sustainable production of materials and energy. By calling on our skills and expertise in these three areas, by working with other colleges at NC State and around the world, WPS pursues interdisciplinary teaching, research and extension activities. Our approach recognizes the scientific and engineering principles driving each area of study as well as applicable technology and business skills. Our programs also examine and acknowledge the broader sustainability issues that affect industries operating in these fields, including the financial, management and social components. All of our programs emphasize hands-on learning that identify solutions to real-world problems and developing futuristic products and environmentally friendly processes.

Activities

The Department of Wood and Paper Science:

• Maintains an intellectual community that brings together teachers, students, researchers, industry partners, government agencies, and non-profit groups in a collaborative environment that encourages the exchange of information and fosters the generation of new ideas.
• Offers undergraduate and graduate academic programs that produce well-rounded professionals who are proficient in the skills required of leaders in their fields for today and tomorrow.
• Conducts interdisciplinary research that uncovers new science and applications for renewable resources, improves existing techniques and leads to engineering and technological developments in paper science and engineering, wood products and forest biomaterials and bioenergy.
• Sponsors extension, outreach and engagement activities to educate and benefit industry professionals and North Carolina communities regarding new research findings and best practices in wood products, paper science and engineering, and forest biomaterials and bioenergy.
• Offers practicing industry professionals opportunities to help them solve technical problems and update their skills.
• Acts as a resource for other NC State departments and outside partners seeking assistance with projects or challenges involving paper science and engineering, wood products or forest biomaterials and bioenergy.

About Us

• Mission Statement
• What We Do
  • Paper Science & Engineering
  • Wood Products
  • Forest Biomaterials & Bioenergy
• Kelley Message
• History
• By The Numbers
• Contact Us
• Virtual Tour

Key Contacts