Funded PhD Student Position (Starting Fall 2026 or Spring 2027) - Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering

Position Summary

The Wettability and Interfacial Surface Engineering (WISE) (https://www.zhaowise.com/) Lab led by Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhao in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Maine invites applications for one fully funded PhD student position. This position is supported by an externally funded research project developing durable, PFAS-free, liquid-repellent surface finishes for next-generation chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear(CBRN) protective clothing.

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, PolymerScience, Textile Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.• Strong interest in surface engineering, polymer coatings, wettability, sustainable materials, protective textiles, or materials characterization.

• Prior research experience in coatings, plasma treatment, polymer chemistry, contact angle measurement, microscopy, spectroscopy, or textile testing is preferred but not required.• For international applicants, English proficiency scores should meet University of Maine graduate admission requirements.