About the Research

Our lab focuses on innovative, interdisciplinary research in areas including:

• Surface science and droplet dynamics
• Thermal science and heat transfer
• Electrokinetics and microfluidics
• Desalination and water-energy nexus
• Energy conversion and harvesting devices
• Biosensors and biomedical applications

Our projects aim to combine fundamental investigations with practical applications to address global challenges in energy, water, and health.

Qualifications

We welcome students from diverse science and engineering backgrounds, particularly those in:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Physics
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science

Preferred Skills/Experience:

• Research experience in experiments or simulations (not mandatory).
• Publications in relevant fields.
• Strong academic performance and interest in interdisciplinary research.

What We Offer

As a PhD student in our lab, you will:

• Work on innovative, high-impact research projects.
• Receive a competitive stipend with full tuition coverage and benefits.
• Gain access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources at MSU.
• Collaborate in a dynamic, supportive, and interdisciplinary research environment.
• Present your work at prestigious national and international conferences.

Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Conduct experiments and simulations in thermal science and fluids.
• Analyze data and develop innovative solutions to engineering challenges.
• Publish high-quality research in peer-reviewed journals.
• Collaborate with other researchers and contribute to lab projects.
• Support teaching and mentoring activities, as required by the department.

Application Process

Interested candidates should email the following documents to Dr. Bei Fan with the subject line “Application for Ph.D. Position”:

1. Cover Letter: Briefly describe your motivation, research interests, and fit for the position.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include educational background, research experience, and any publications.
3. Transcripts: Provide records of academic performance.

Application Deadline:
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged as positions will be filled as suitable candidates are identified.

About the Principal Investigator

Dr. Bei Fan earned her PhD in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the University of California, San Diego (2019) and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Science and Technology of China (2015). She has extensive research experience, including a postdoctoral role at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, focusing on energy storage and distributed energy systems.