PhD, Physical Chemistry, 1994
R&D Director for Open Innovation, Procter & Gamble Company
When Pete Ellingson arrived at the University of Wisconsin–Madison to pursue a PhD in physical chemistry, he was looking for a program that offered both academic excellence and a collaborative environment. He found exactly that in the UW–Madison Department of Chemistry. “The department had the perfect combination of many faculty members whose research interests meshed with mine, strong facilities, an outstanding ranking and reputation, and [it was] located in a fun city,” he recalls.
Today, Ellingson serves as an R&D Director for Open Innovation at The Procter & Gamble Company, where he helps shape innovation strategies and partnerships. His journey from graduate student to industry leader was influenced by his time at UW–Madison. For Ellingson, the Department of Chemistry provided much more than technical training. It offered early exposure to the realities of industry and the connections needed to succeed.
“Beyond the academic training, my advisor was well-connected in industry,” he says. “This certainly helped in getting an internship and later an industrial position. Moreover, my advisor made a regular point of educating us on the nature of industrial challenges.”
This combination of rigorous scholarship and practical insight helped Ellingson bridge the gap between academia and industry, an experience that continues to inform his work today.
A Culture of Support and Excellence
When reflecting on his time in Madison, Ellingson points to a defining characteristic of the department: its people.
“Top-flight faculty who were always helpful,” he says. That culture of mentorship and accessibility remains a hallmark of the department, supporting generations of students as they navigate their academic and professional paths.
Advice for the Next Generation
Ellingson encourages current chemistry students to think broadly while developing deep expertise in their field.
“Depth in chemistry is powerful, even more so when coupled with breadth in other fields such as math, physics, biology, biochemistry, and computing,” he explains. “Having that ‘T-shaped’ profile opens up many opportunities for you over the course of a career.”
Continuing to Give Back
In addition to his professional work, Ellingson remains connected to UW–Madison. He is a member of the department’s Board of Advisors, helping guide and support the future of the Department of Chemistry and its students.