One postdoctoral and PhD position available starting Jan 2026
Dr. Boya Xiong at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities seeks 1 postdoc and 1 PhD student to study nanoplastic generation and release using advanced atomic force microscopy (AFM) tools. This work will be supported through the NSF CAREER award. The project leverages the novel single-asperity nanoscratch method and other advanced AFM modes to visualize the mechanism of nanoplastic release and to identify unique nanoscale properties that result in health impacts. Outcomes will include how abrasion conditions, plastic properties, and UV-exposure shape release profile, enabling risk assessment and screening tools for future polymers.
Anticipated start: Flexible, preferably before Jan 2026. For PhD, Fall 2026 will be considered.
Qualifications and skills
Degree in but not limited to: environmental engineering, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, chemistry
Post-doc:
- Demonstrated experience and knowledge in AFM, material characterization, micro- and nanoplastics, polymer science, interfacial science.
- Competitive academic and publication records
- Excellent communication skills (oral and written)
- Teaching, mentoring, and organizational skills
PhD:
- Strong interest in micro- and nanoplastics, AFM, material science and characterization, polymer science, interfacial science.
- Related undergraduate research experiences
- Strong academic records
- Preferably with a MS degree with strong research experience (not a must).
Application instruction
Email Dr. Boya Xiong ([email protected]) with subject "Postdoc/PhD Application for AFM/Nanoplastic". Please attach one single pdf file including:
- 1- page cover letter (why you are the best candidate for this work and how it serves your career.)
- CV
- 3 references (name and contact)
Related links: https://xiong.cege.umn.edu/; https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2442299&HistoricalAwards=false
Undergraduate research positions
Dr. Xiong is passionate about undergraduate education and believes scientific research is an essential experience for undergraduate students in environmental engineering. We very much welcome undergraduate students to experience academic research in our laboratory. Students will be paired with graduate students or advised directly by Dr. Xiong. Here are some rules that we believe serve the best purpose for an undergraduate research experience:
1. Students will be trained for one-three months and then are expected to work independently in the laboratory or remotely.
2. It is the best if the student can commit one full year of experience to the lab, if not, at least two continuous semester to actually get an "idea" what research is about and what graduate school looks like.
3. Students begin their research experience as a volunteer in the lab, or by getting academic credit. We provide time of graduate student or Prof. Xiong's time as investment in training and mentoring you. If, after working with the group for a period, you may revisit seeking a stipend. We do not offer stipend immediately.
4. We will train students with presentation, report writing skills, and provide one on one mentorship on career choice and how to apply for graduate school.
You may also seek a research grant through UROP, Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program. This program is through the Office of Undergraduate Education - look through the website and be very aware of the deadlines for the program.
Students at any level in chemical engineering, chemistry, material science, environmental engineering/ science, or any science and engineering field with a passion in environmental research are welcome. Please directly email Dr. Xiong with curriculum vita and indicate the specific project you would like to be involved.