The Granular Mechanics for Energy and Disasters (GRAMED) Research Lab at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is recruiting 1-2 fully funded PhD students for Summer or Fall 2026. The lab focuses on the fundamental and applied study of multiphase granular flow and subsurface geomechanics, utilizing both computational and experimental approaches. Research topics are closely related to geohazards, geo-energy, and disaster resilience, with applications in subsurface energy technologies and geohazard mitigation. The interdisciplinary work bridges geomechanics, energy systems, and hazard sciences, aiming to advance predictive capabilities and inform engineering strategies for infrastructure resilience and sustainable energy development. Applicants should have a background in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Geological Engineering, Earth Sciences, or Computer Sciences. A strong foundation in mechanics is essential. Preferred skills include experience with numerical simulations (FEM, DEM, SPH), programming (C++, Cuda-C++, Python, MATLAB), Linux environments, statistical and data-driven approaches, advanced mechanical testing, and experimental design. The lab values self-motivated, intellectually curious students eager to develop new research skills. The position is fully funded, including stipend and tuition coverage. Interested candidates should email Dr. Yumeng Zhao ([email protected]) with a CV and a brief research background and plan. For more details, visit the lab webpage at https://sites.google.com/view/yumeng-zhao . The application window is open for Summer and Fall 2026, and early applications are encouraged. GRAMED Lab at University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a collaborative environment for research in granular mechanics, geomechanics, and geo-energy, supporting innovations that address real-world challenges in energy and disaster preparedness.

The Granular Mechanics for Energy and Disasters (GRAMED) Research Lab at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is recruiting 1-2 fully funded PhD students to begin in Summer or Fall 2026. The lab, led by Dr. Yumeng Zhao, focuses on fundamental and applied research in multiphase granular flow and subsurface geomechanics, utilizing both computational and experimental approaches. Research topics are primarily related to geohazards and geo-energy, with the goal of advancing predictive capabilities and informing engineering strategies for disaster preparedness, infrastructure resilience, and sustainable energy development. Applicants should have a strong background in geotechnical engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, geological engineering, earth sciences, or computer sciences, with a solid foundation in mechanics. The lab values self-motivated, intellectually curious students eager to develop new research skills. Preferred qualifications include experience with numerical simulations (such as FEM, DEM, SPH), programming (C++, Cuda-C++, Python, MATLAB), Linux environments, statistical and data-driven approaches, advanced mechanical testing, and experimental methods. The positions are fully funded, covering tuition and providing a stipend (exact amount not specified). The research environment is interdisciplinary, bridging geomechanics, energy, and hazard sciences, and supports innovations with real-world impact. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the lab webpage for more information and to email Dr. Zhao with their CV and a brief research background and plan. The application window is open for Summer or Fall 2026, and early applications are encouraged. For more details, visit the GRAMED Lab page: https://sites.google.com/view/yumeng-zhao . To apply, email Dr. Zhao at [email protected] with your application materials.