Jihong A. Ma

University of Vermont is advertising an immediate fully funded PhD position with a graduate assistantship in computational polymer science and organic chemistry in the research group of Professor Jihong A. Ma . The project focuses on computational organic chemistry , polymer science , and the development of predictive, fundamental understanding of structure–property relationships in organic molecules and polymeric materials. The work is especially relevant for students interested in molecular-level phenomena, polymer chemistry, and dynamics. Applicants should have an undergraduate or graduate degree in chemistry , materials science , physics , engineering , or a related field. Preferred experience includes first-principles (quantum chemical) calculations , molecular dynamics simulations , coarse-grained modeling , and high-performance computing . The anticipated start date is August 31, 2026 , with flexibility to begin as late as January 18, 2027 . Interested applicants should email Professor Jihong A. Ma with a brief statement of research interests, a summary of relevant experience and technical skills, and a current CV or resume. Selected candidates will then be invited to formally apply through either the UVM Department of Mechanical Engineering or the Department of Physics and must meet all graduate admission requirements. Review begins immediately and continues until the position is filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.