Dr. Anctil is looking for 3 motivated and independent PhD students to join the Sustainable Energy Systems Group for Fall 2025 https://engineering.msu.edu/faculty/Annick-Anctil. Dr. Anctil’s research seeks to reduce the environmental impact of new technologies. Life-cycle assessment (LCA) is used to identify critical steps in current technologies and guide greener alternatives.
I will recruit a student for each of the following research areas.
- Environmental toxicity, chemical characterization, and green chemistry (lab work – background in material, chemical, or environmental preferred). Interest in life cycle assessment and recycling preferred. The project will likely be related to recycling batteries, plastic, solar, or other energy materials. Examples of previous publications: Alternative green solvents / Leaching pavement / Iterative method for chemical process
- Life cycle assessment, energy supply chain, and circular economy (mostly modeling but also expected to do lab work or contribute to projects #1 and 3). Preference to students with LCA and ASPEN experience or ability to learn before joining the group. Example of previous papers: LCA of solar in China / US / Material availability using system dynamics / EV battery material
- Industrial assessment center: Perform industrial energy assessment and provide recommendations to improve energy and waste efficiency of various industries in Michigan. Interest in automotive manufacturing is a bonus. Excellent communication and professional skills are required. Research interest in industrial decarbonization. Potential PhD research on solar for manufacturing, LCA of industrial processes, heat recovery, etc. More info
I advise students in Environmental Engineering (recommended only if you have an MS in environmental engineering) or Civil Engineering - Energy and Sustainability (for any other engineering background) in CEE department.
I also support exceptional students interested in environmental policy for the dual Ph.D. in Environmental Science & Policy
To apply:
Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Annick Anctil (anctilan@msu.edu) for feedback on their application.
Please
- Use the subject line: PhDApplication F25_YourName
- Send 1 single PDF file which includes:
- A cover letter that summarizes your background, research experience, and fit with Dr. Anctil's research group (Max 1 page)
- CV
Or apply directly at https://grad.msu.edu/apply
About MSU
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
CEE Website: https://www.egr.msu.edu/cee/