PhD Opportunities in Plasma Physics, Computational Chemistry, and Aerospace Engineering at UCLA University of California, Los Angeles in United States

The Multiscale Computational Plasma Lab (MCPL) at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is recruiting PhD students to join its inaugural cohort in Fall 2026. Led by incoming Assistant Professor Luca Vialetto, the lab focuses on advancing the understanding of low-temperature plasmas and their interactions with materials through cutting-edge computational modeling and simulation. Research areas span plasma physics, computational chemistry, multiscale modeling, plasma-surface interactions, electric propulsion, plasma processing, and chemical energy conversion.

The group is particularly interested in bridging fundamental physics with practical applications, including space propulsion, advanced manufacturing, and energy storage and conversion. MCPL will develop physics-based and data-driven models, leveraging machine learning and rigorous theory, and collaborate with experimental groups to address critical challenges in energy, materials, and aerospace engineering. Applicants should have strong computational and/or mathematical skills and a passion for interdisciplinary research.

The position is expected to be fully funded, with support for tuition and stipend, and students will benefit from UCLA's world-class engineering environment. Interested candidates should contact Prof. Vialetto directly and apply through UCLA's graduate admissions portal. International students are welcome and may need to provide proof of English proficiency.

The application deadline is August 1, 2026. For more information, visit the group website or reach out via email.