The Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Memphis invites applications for two fully funded Ph.D. positions in Environmental Engineering, starting either Fall 2024 or January 2025. Research areas encompass a variety of topics including water quality sensors design (nutrients, metals, PFAS, etc.); wastewater treatment techniques (microbial electrochemical systems, anaerobic digestion, membrane filtration) for resource recovery; and data-driven approaches to revolutionize the digital Water-Energy-Food Nexus (machine learning applications in environmental engineering, digital twins, plant growth assessment). The Ph.D. students will be supervised by Dr. Yuankai Huang.
This position covers tuition, offers competitive stipends, and includes benefits like health insurance. Students will work with interdisciplinary research teams at the University of Memphis to address critical environmental challenges such as drinking water supply and emerging contaminants pollution in the streams and rivers in Tennessee. Dr. Huang will provide tailored mentoring plans based on the student's research background and career goals and fund professional development activities.
How to Apply
We welcome candidates with a bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields. Ideal candidates should be self-motivated, able to work both independently and as part of a team, and possess strong communication skills. While a Master's degree is preferred, it is not required.
Interested candidates are encouraged to email Dr. Yuankai Huang (yuankai.huang@gatech.edu) with "UofM CE Graduate Application" as the subject. Please attach a single PDF containing your CV (with any publications), transcripts, TOEFL/IELTS scores (for international candidates), and contact information for three references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Deadlines: July 1 for domestic and May 1 for international applicants (Fall 2024); December 1 for domestic and November 1 for international applicants (Spring 2025). Admission requirements are available at here
About Dr. Yaunkai Huang
Dr. Yuankai Huang is joining the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Memphis as an Assistant Professor in Fall 2024. His research tackles crucial water-resource-energy-sensor-data challenges. He focuses on real-time water quality monitoring, developing sustainable water treatment technologies, and employing computational methods in the Water-Energy-Food Nexus.
About the University of Memphis
The University of Memphis, located in a tranquil residential area of Memphis, Tennessee, is an R1 institution, placing it among the top-tier research universities nationwide. This distinction confirms the University's status as one of two flagship public institutions in Tennessee. Living in Memphis offers a rewarding experience, combining the comfort of a friendly community with the vibrancy of a city rich in cultural heritage and diverse opportunities.
The Department of Civil Engineering is renowned for its excellent academic program, innovative, community-focused research, and welcoming atmosphere. It offers a comprehensive learning experience, combining the benefits of a large urban university with the close-knit community of the Herff College of Civil Engineering.