Openings

Ph.D. Recruitment Opportunity Fall 2025

The Liang’s Research Group in the School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering (CBEE) at Oregon State University (https://yuanzheliang.github.io/) is recruiting one fully-funded Ph.D. student for Fall 2025.

Ph.D. Candidate Requirements:

  • A bachelor’s or master’s degree (obtained or expected) in relevant fields such as Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, etc. Candidates with a master’s degree are preferred.
  • Interest in membrane science and membrane processes.
  • Research experience in membrane material synthesis, electrocatalytic/photocatalytic process, or membrane reactors is preferred.
  • Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python) is an advantage.
  • A positive work and study attitude, strong teamwork skills, and the ability to conduct independent research projects.
  • Excellent scientific writing and communication skills.

What We Offer:

  • Full financial support, including tuition, stipend, health insurance, and travel expenses for academic conferences.
  • Access to advanced facilities and a supportive research environment.
  • Multidisciplinary collaboration and integrative research opportunities.
  • Professional development guidance, leadership training, and career planning support.

Application Process: Interested candidates should contact Dr. Yuanzhe Liang by email (yuanzhe.liang@oregonstate.edu) with the subject line “Ph.D. Application–Your Name.” Please include the following documents in a single PDF:

  • A cover letter describing your background, research experience, interests, and career goals (one page).
  • Your CV.
  • Academic transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable).
  • A scientific writing sample (e.g., a published paper as first author, thesis, or course project report).
  • Contact information for three references (name, institution, and email address).
  • Eligible candidates will be contacted for an interview, and selected candidates will be invited to submit a formal application through the Graduate School. All applicants must meet Oregon State University’s graduate admission requirements. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Undergraduate Student

Our lab is always open to undergraduate students interested in participating in research, whether as summer interns or part-time research assistants during the academic year. Financial support may be available through the university or the School of CBEE for OSU undergraduate students. I invite you to discuss potential opportunities with me, as we can explore diverse avenues for involvement and find the perfect fit for your interests and aspirations.

PI bio

Dr. Yuanzhe Liang is a tenure-track assistant professor in the School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering at Oregon State University. Additionally, Prof. Liang holds a joint appintment as a guest researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. He obtained his Ph.D. degree from Vanderbilt University and received his postdoctoral trainings at Stanford University and National Renewable Energy Laboratory, respectively. He holds a M.S. degree from Case Western Reverse University and a B.S. degree from Beijing University of Chemical Technology. His research group focuses on innovations in membrane technologies to enable a circular economy of water, energy, and materials. More information about Dr. Liang’s research interests and the i-MemTec Lab’s Mission, Strategy, and Value could be found at https://yuanzheliang.github.io/ . His research has been published in Nature Communications, Environmental Science & Technology, Journal of Membrane Science, ACS ES&T Engineering, Environmental Science & Technology Letters, Journal of Materials Chemistry, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, and Frontiers in Membrane Science and Technology.

About the school

Nestled in the picturesque Pacific Northwest, Oregon State University (OSU) stands as a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, and community. Established in 1868, OSU has grown to become a renowned public “R1” institution with a strong commitment to educational advancement, cutting-edge research, and service to society. The School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering emphasizes the integration of chemical, biological, and environmental engineering principles and practice in a student-centered learning environment to provide work-ready graduates and technical solutions for a sustainable future. Research expenditures exceed $8 million per year. Our school is an inclusive, diverse community of students, faculty, and staff who are dedicated to creating a better future. We invite you to join us.

Contact Information

Yuanzhe Liang, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering
Oregon State University
Email: yuanzhe.liang@oregonstate.edu