The Journal publishes papers on the fundamentals of chemical engineering, including applications of biology, chemistry, and physics. Descriptions of original and significant results based on experiments and/or developments in theory are appropriate. Such results may be the outcome of studies that range from the molecular level to the systems level.

The scope of industrial activity that defines issues suitable for the journal is interpreted broadly to include biotechnology, chemicals, energy, food, forest products, materials, microelectronics, nanotechnology, and specialty chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Contributions addressing global issues such as water availability, energy utilization, and sustainable resources are especially welcome.