Postdoc Positions
We don’t have any openings for postdoc right now.
Graduate Research Assistant Positions
Interested students are welcome to contact PI.
Position Details:
Dr. Zhou Yu is seeking motivated and talented individuals to join the group. The focus of the research projects lies in comprehending the physicochemical properties of advanced functional materials (e.g., liquid electrolytes, polymer electrolytes, SEI/CEI layers, functional membranes, rare earth elements, etc.) through molecular simulations, continuum modeling, and machine learning techniques. Successful candidates will have opportunities to collaborate closely with scientists from Oak Ridge and Argonne National Laboratory on innovative research endeavors. These fully funded positions come with competitive stipends and comprehensive benefits.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Energy and Power Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred but not required.
- For Bachelor’s degree holders: Minimum GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale. For Master’s degree holders: Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- English proficiency requirements: TOFEL 79 (or IELTS 6.5). The GRE could be waived.
- Familiarity with molecular simulations software or packages (e.g., GROMACS, LAMMPS, GAUSSIAN, VASP, ADF, CP2K, etc.), multiphysics solvers (COMSOL and MOOSE), and proficiency in one computer programming language (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C, etc.) are advantageous.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should compile their CV, unofficial transcript, and contact information for three professional references into a single PDF document. This PDF should then be emailed to Dr. Zhou Yu at zhou.yu@ua.edu, with the subject line “PhD student – name”. Please note that references will not be contacted without prior permission from the candidate.
Deadline and Start Date:
Applications will be accepted continuously. Successful candidate will begin their PhD studies in August 2025.
Undergraduate Research Assistant Positions
Interested students are encouraged to contact the PI or graduate students in the group. Undergraduate students will be involved in specific research projects and receive solid training in molecular simulation techniques. Some outstanding undergraduate students will be provided with stipends.
We believe this practical knowledge of molecular simulation of functional materials is not only academically enriching but also immensely valuable in the job market. Industries ranging from renewable energy to pharmaceuticals seek computational analysis and predictive modeling skills. Furthermore, involvement in molecular simulations opens doors to prestigious graduate programs and sets a strong foundation for a career in research and development.