Michigan State University — Zhang Lab
Departments: Chemical Engineering & Materials Science (ChEMS) and Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering (BAE)
The Zhang Lab in Michigan State University is seeking for two highly motivated PhD students. Our lab develops advanced polymer and biopolymer nanomaterials for precision delivery in plants to enable sustainable agriculture. We combine nanofabrication, polymer chemistry, plant biology/physiology, advanced spectroscopy/spectrometry, and machine learning to build a high-throughput, rational design pipeline for next-generation nano-agrochemical technologies.
Research Focus
You will:
- Invent polymer/biopolymer-based nanomaterials for targeted, systemic agrochemicals/genetic materials delivery in crop plants.
- Integrate plant biology assays, advanced microscopy, spectroscopy, and spectrometry techniques to mechanistically understand nanomaterials to plant interactions.
- Apply data-driven and ML models to guide design–build–test cycles for nano-enabled agriculture.
Desired Background
Strong candidates will have experience in at least one of the following areas:
- Nanomaterials/nanofabrication or colloid science
- (Bio)polymer chemistry and characterization
- Plant biology/physiology/pathology
- Data science or machine learning for materials/biology
Qualifications
- Degree: Master’s degree preferred; outstanding candidates with a Bachelor’s degree will be considered.
- GPA: ≥ 3.5/4.0 in core coursework.
- English proficiency: Required. International applicants must meet MSU requirements (e.g., TOEFL iBT ≥ 80 or IELTS ≥ 6.5). Proficiency will also be assessed via application materials and a Zoom interview.
What We Offer
- Competitive stipend and full tuition coverage with benefits
- Supportive mentorship aligned with your career goals.
- Multidisciplinary collaborations and high-impact, translational research opportunities
- Conference travel support (as funding allows)
- Access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and core facilities at MSU
How to Apply
Email one (1) PDF to Dr. Yilin Zhang at zhan2565@msu.edu
Subject: PhD Application – [Your Name]
Filename: [YourName]_MSU_ZhangLab.pdf
Include, in this order:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic Transcripts (unofficial acceptable for initial review)
- Cover Letter (1–2 pages): anticipated start date/term, education, research experience and interests, and long-term career goals
- Contact information for 2–3 references
Timeline & Review
Applications for Spring/Fall 2026 are reviewed on a rolling basis until both positions are filled. Due to volume, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a Zoom interview. All applications will be reviewed fairly and thoroughly.