Ph.D. Positions in Sustainability Engineering Research

Research areas:
The United States is actively pursuing a transition from fossil fuel-based economy to a bio-based economy that sustainably utilizes renewable biomass resources for producing energy, intermediate and final product. The development of bioeconomy is one of research focuses in the Forest Biomaterials Department at North Carolina State University. Prof. Yuan Yao is looking for Ph.D. students to take a lead role in developing state-of-the-art analysis tools for quantifying environmental impacts of bioenergy and biomaterials, optimizing existing and future industrial systems, and identifying feasible pathways to a more sustainable future.

Qualifications:
Ph.D. students will receive financial support that includes stipends, tuition and health benefits as Graduate Research Assistant (GRA). The successful applicants should have relevant backgrounds in Chemical Engineering or other related engineering fields. Applicants should hold a BS or Master’s degree or graduate in the very near future – date of graduation must be enclosed in the application. Good speaking and written English is required (TOEFL > 90 is preferred for international applicants). GRE is required for all applicants.

Previous experience and/or documented knowledge in one or more of the following areas are highly recommended to apply:

• Process optimization and mathematical programming (e.g., Matlab, R, Python, GAMS)
• Chemical process modeling and simulation (e.g., AspenPlus or similar software)
• Life Cycle Assessment methodologies and ecosystems services assessment

Contacts:
Dr. Yuan Yao, Yuan_Yao@ncsu.edu