Postdoctoral Researcher and Funded PhD Student in Wettability and Interfacial Surface Engineering University of Maine in United States

The University of Maine is advertising two openings in the Wettability and Interfacial Surface Engineering (WISE) Lab led by Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhao in the Department of Mechanical Engineering: a fully funded Postdoctoral Researcher position and a fully funded PhD student position.

The research focuses on surface engineering, surface modification, polymer coatings, interfacial science, wettability, and protective textiles. The project aims to develop durable, PFAS-free, liquid-repellent surface finishes for next-generation chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) protective clothing. This is a strong fit for applicants interested in mechanical engineering, materials science, chemical engineering, polymer science, chemistry, and textile-related research.

Postdoctoral position: Applicants should hold a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Textile Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related field. Strong experience in surface modification, polymer coatings, interfacial science, wettability, textile finishing, or materials characterization is preferred. Helpful technical experience includes silane/sol-gel chemistry, XPS/FTIR/AFM/SEM, contact angle analysis, abrasion testing, and protective textile evaluation. The position is fully funded, with an annual salary of $60,000 plus benefits, initially for one year with possible renewal.

PhD position: Applicants should have a B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Textile Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field. The group seeks students with a strong interest in surface engineering, polymer coatings, wettability, sustainable materials, protective textiles, or materials characterization. Prior experience in coatings, plasma treatment, polymer chemistry, contact angle measurement, microscopy, spectroscopy, or textile testing is preferred but not required. International applicants must meet the University of Maine graduate admission English proficiency requirements. The PhD position is fully funded by an externally funded research project.

How to apply: Email Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhao at [email protected] with the correct subject line and include the requested materials: cover letter or brief statement, CV, transcripts, references, and representative publications if available. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Institution: University of Maine, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Orono, Maine, United States.