Fully Funded PhD in Mechanical Engineering: Microfluidics, Acoustofluidics, and Microphysiological Systems University of Rhode Island in United States

PhD opportunity in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Rhode Island with Dr. Yang Lin’s Microfluidics and Microsystems Laboratory.

The group is recruiting multiple fully funded PhD students for Fall 2026 / Spring 2027 in research areas including microfluidics, acoustofluidics, microphysiological systems (organ-on-chip), acoustic metamaterials, and environmental monitoring. The work focuses on microscale transport phenomena and combines fluid dynamics, device design, fabrication, quantitative analysis, and biological systems.

Funding is described as a Graduate Research Assistantship or Teaching Assistantship with full tuition coverage, a competitive stipend, and health insurance. The lab is supported by external funding, including the NSF CAREER Award and multiple DARPA programs.

Applicants should have a strong engineering background and interest in microfluidics, acoustics, or bio-integrated systems. A master’s degree is preferred, but strong candidates with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, or a related field may be considered. Helpful experience includes microfluidic device fabrication, acoustofluidics, fluid mechanics, particle manipulation, cell culture, organoid systems, or lab-on-chip technologies. International applicants are expected to demonstrate strong English communication skills; a TOEFL score of 90+ or equivalent (such as IELTS or Duolingo) is expected.

To apply, prepare a cover letter, CV, transcripts, two references, and a sample of published/submitted work if available. Send the materials to [email protected] and/or use the LinkedIn application link. Review begins immediately, and early submissions are encouraged.