Ph.D. Positions in Mechanical Engineering

Overview

Dr. Yang Lin’s Microfluidics and Microsystems Laboratory at the University of Rhode Island (URI) is recruiting multiple highly motivated Ph.D. students to join the group in Fall 2026 or Spring 2027. The laboratory conducts research in microfluidics and acoustofluidics, with emphasis on environmental monitoring (including micro- and nanoplastics detection), microphysiological systems (organ-on-chip, organoids), acoustic metamaterials, and advanced lab-on-chip platforms. The research focuses on understanding and engineering microscale transport phenomena, and on developing integrated systems that combine device design, fluid dynamics, and biological functionality. The lab is supported by federal funding, including the NSF CAREER Award (recommended) and multiple DARPA programs (Young Faculty Award and Director’s Fellowship), providing a stable and well-supported environment for sustained research and graduate training.

Research Opportunities

The selected students will work on engineering-focused research projects centered on the design and development of microfluidic and acoustofluidic systems for applications in particle and cell manipulation, organoid culture, and integrated biological testing platforms. These efforts are closely related to ongoing work in microphysiological systems, where microfluidic architectures are used to support and control biologically relevant environments. The group particularly values applicants with prior laboratory experience in cell culture, organoids, or lab-on-chip systems, as these skills enable immediate contributions to experiments involving microscale biological systems. In parallel, applicants with backgrounds in acoustics, bubble and particle dynamics, or microscale fluid mechanics will be well positioned to contribute to fundamental studies in acoustofluidics, including the coupling between acoustic fields and microscale transport processes. The research emphasizes the integration of device design, fabrication, and quantitative analysis, with an interest in understanding transport, mixing, and interaction phenomena in confined microscale environments. Projects are typically structured to combine controlled experimentation with modeling and analysis. This allows students to develop both fundamental insight and system-level design capabilities. For more information about our lab, please visit Microfluidics and Microsystems Laboratory.

Key Responsibilities

The position involves conducting both experimental and modeling-based research, with an emphasis on the design, fabrication, and characterization of microfluidic and acoustofluidic systems. Students will develop and implement microscale platforms, carry out experiments involving cell or organoid-based systems, and perform quantitative data analysis to investigate underlying transport and interaction phenomena. In addition to research activities, students are expected to disseminate their work through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences. The role also includes collaboration with interdisciplinary teams across engineering and biological domains, as well as contributing to the broader research environment through participation in laboratory activities and mentorship of junior students.

Qualifications

Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing doctoral research in a multidisciplinary engineering environment. A master’s degree is preferred, although highly qualified candidates with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, or a closely related field will be considered. Strong candidates will have prior experience in one or more relevant areas, such as microfluidic device fabrication, acoustofluidics, fluid mechanics, particle manipulation, cell culture, organoid systems, or lab-on-chip technologies. While experience in biological systems is valued, applicants are expected to demonstrate a solid engineering foundation, with clear interest in device design, modeling, and experimental characterization. Successful applicants should be able to work independently, communicate effectively, and contribute to a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment.

Funding and Research Environment

This position is fully supported through a Graduate Research Assistantship or Teaching Assistantship in the Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering at the University of Rhode Island. The support package includes full tuition coverage, a competitive stipend, and health insurance. Students will have access to advanced research infrastructure, including high-resolution 3D microfabrication systems and acoustofluidic experimental platforms. The laboratory provides a collaborative research environment that integrates engineering design with emerging biological applications and supports both fundamental studies and system-level development. URI offers a strong academic setting with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development. Additional information about the university and the College of Engineering can be found at the URI College of Engineering.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit the following documents to Dr. Lin at yanglin@uri.edu:

1.        A cover letter describing your research interests and motivation for applying

2.        Curriculum vitae (CV)

3.        Copies of academic transcripts

4.        Contact information for two references

5.        A sample of your published or submitted research work (if available)

6.        International applicants should demonstrate strong English communication skills. A TOEFL score of 90 or higher (or equivalent, such as IELTS or Duolingo) is expected.

Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin immediately. Early submissions are encouraged. We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming a strong engineering student to our research team.