First
The Institute of Optics was the first academic program of its kind.
Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences
“This is not the time to slow down—it is the time to lead. With mounting funding challenges, rapid technological change, and urgent issues that span national security, public health, energy systems, and beyond, the time for bold action is now.”
—Wendi Heinzelman, Dean
At the Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, we’re overcoming challenges head-on, with cutting-edge research, world-class partnerships, and hands-on education that prepares students to lead from day one.
Now is the time to invest in the people, ideas, and facilities to keep future engineers and the University of Rochester at the forefront of innovation.
Will you help us continue to make breakthrough discoveries that make our world ever better?
Boundless
Collaborations with University of Rochester Medicine and the Eastman School ignite research discovery.
Largest
The Laboratory for Laser Energetics houses the largest academic laser in the world and is a key partner to the Hajim School.
Our priorities
For brilliant minds
Faculty like Benjamin Castañeda ’09 (PhD) are driving innovation through AI-powered portable medical technologies. His work brings life-saving care to rural communities and shows how URochester engineering is expanding global healthcare access and improving lives through interdisciplinary research that serves humanity.
Give to support Hajim faculty excellence
For boundless opportunities
A cohort of URochester undergraduate chemistry and chemical engineering students are gaining crucial paid research experience through a new scholars program. The inaugural group of Barbara J. Burger Chemical Sustainability Scholars are conducting research at the forefront of sustainability under the guidance of URochester faculty.
Give to support Hajim students
For next-generation spaces
Designed to accelerate cross-disciplinary research, new state-of-the art research facilities for natural sciences and engineering are being imagined for River Campus that will provide critical opportunities for student experiential learning.
Give to improve and modernize Hajim spaces
For thriving communities
Creating vibrant and healthy communities is a University priority, and engineering is leading the way. Hajim data science undergraduate and graduate students have partnered with the Rochester Fire Department to analyze 1.6 million data points, improving emergency response and showing engineering’s real world impact.
Support Hajim engineering in the community
Meliora for life
Show your support by volunteering today! Every meaningful interaction makes our community stronger and counts toward our Campaign goals.
- Mentor and facilitate internship and job opportunities through the Gwen M. Greene Center for Career Education and Connections, including The Meliora Collective and Handshake.
- Attend Hajim School and University events.
Learn more
Meliora Weekend
October 1-4, 2026
Join us across all campuses for a spectacular Meliora Weekend packed with unforgettable alumni reunions, inspiring academic lectures, thrilling athletic competitions, world-class entertainment, and family-friendly fun.