Dr. Tingting Xu, incoming Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at McMaster University, is recruiting two fully funded PhD students to join her research group starting in Fall 2026 or Winter 2027. The research group focuses on advancing the fundamental physics of geomaterial behavior and developing numerical methods to address engineering and geophysical challenges. Research areas include geomechanics, geotechnics, computational mechanics, multiphysics modeling, and computational optimization. Successful candidates will work on developing computational and theoretical frameworks for complex materials and subsurface systems governed by coupled thermo–hydro–chemo–mechanical (THCM) processes.

Responsibilities include developing theoretical frameworks for multiscale, multiphysics geomaterial modeling, designing and validating finite-element or related solvers, analyzing results for engineering guidance, collaborating on reproducible workflows, and reporting progress through presentations and technical reports. Candidates will have the opportunity to publish in peer-reviewed venues and contribute to cutting-edge research in civil engineering and related fields.

Applicants must have a bachelor's or master's degree in Civil Engineering, Geoscience, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, with strong coursework in mechanics. Familiarity with programming languages (C++, Python, MATLAB) and finite-element packages is required, as are effective written and oral communication skills in English. Preferred qualifications include research experience in soil mechanics, computational mechanics, fracture mechanics, finite-element methods, or nonlinear optimization, a master's degree or equivalent research experience, and publications in peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings. GPA and TOEFL/IELTS scores may be required if applicable.

The positions are fully funded, offering financial support for the duration of the PhD. Specific stipend and tuition details are not provided, but the funding is described as comprehensive. The application process requires emailing Dr. Tingting Xu with a CV, a one-page statement of research interests, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for two academic references. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in geomechanics, geotechnics, computational mechanics, and related fields to join a dynamic research group at McMaster University, a leading institution in Canada.