Join Us

The NanoBioMech Lab at the University of Cincinnati is actively recruiting highly motivated students and visiting scholars to join our team for Fall/Spring 2027. We are seeking individuals passionate about integrating advanced biomanufacturing, multiscale characterization, and mechanics modeling to address challenges in healthcare and engineering.

Research Areas

Successful candidates will work on projects in one or more of the following areas:

1. Advanced Biomanufacturing

• Development of sustainable bioinks for bioprinting and fabrication
• Design of collagen- and biopolymer-based cell scaffolds with controlled microstructure, composition, and interfacial properties
• Fabrication of nano-bio-structured materials that combine mechanical performance, biocompatibility, and a smaller environmental footprint

2. Multiscale Characterization

• Multiscale mechanical testing, including nanoindentation and in situ experiments
• Mechanobiological studies of cell–matrix interactions, stiffness heterogeneity, and viscoelastic response in engineered tissues

3. Mechanics Modeling

• Continuum and discrete models that connect microstructural deformation to macroscopic mechanical behavior
• Predictive modeling of damage, energy dissipation, and cellular mechanotransduction in bio-structured materials
• Scientific machine learning, including neural operators and physics-informed models, for constitutive modeling and inverse design

Qualifications

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Solid Mechanics, Materials Science, Bioengineering or related fields
• Strong background in one of: experimental mechanics, cell culture, bioprinting, computational and theoretical modeling, or machine learning (least important)
• Programming experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Passion for interdisciplinary research

What We Offer

• Competitive funding — Full stipend and tuition coverage for PhD students
• State-of-the-art facilities — Advanced mechanical testing, microscopy, and computational resources
• Collaborative environment — Work with leading collaborators across the world’s top engineering and medical programs
• Professional development — Conference travel, workshop participation, and career mentoring
• Vibrant location — Cincinnati offers affordable living, rich culture, and proximity to major research hubs

How to Apply

Please send the following materials in one combined PDF to jinhx@ucmail.uc.edu with the subject line: “PhD Application - [Your Name]”

• CV/Resume
• Brief statement of research interests (no more than 1 paragraph; no AI, please)
• Transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable)
• Contact information for 1-2 references
• Representative publications or research samples (if any)

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged.

The NanoBioMech Lab is committed to fostering an inclusive environment. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and encourage diversity in our research team.