Scholarships
Fully Funded PhD Position in Experimental Materials Science & Engineering at University of Illinois Chicago
Are you looking for a fully funded PhD opportunity in Materials Science and Engineering? The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), College of Engineering, is inviting applications for a PhD position starting Fall 2026 in the laboratory of Dr. Joshua W. Adkins, within the Department of Civil, Materials, and Environmental Engineering (CME).
This position offers full financial support, cutting-edge research opportunities, and access to one of the top urban research institutions in the U.S.
Candidate Qualifications
The ideal candidate should hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in:
- Materials Science & Engineering
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Electrical Engineering
- Or a closely related field
Additional desirable expertise includes:
- Solid-state physics
- Electromagnetism
- Materials science fundamentals
Candidates from historically underrepresented groups in STEM and those interested in leveraging their research to benefit their communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Research Focus & Opportunities
This PhD project focuses on the application of composition- and strain-based engineering strategies to enhance the properties and performance of ferroelectric complex oxides.
Key highlights include:
- Research on fluorite- and wurtzite-structured ferroelectrics
- Applications in energy storage, sensors, non-volatile memory, and neuromorphic computing
- Interdisciplinary collaborations across physics, chemistry, and biomedical sciences
Students will gain advanced training in:
- Nanoscale device fabrication (laser-based thin film deposition, nanoscale processing)
- Characterization techniques (X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, electronic transport)
- Critical scientific thinking and communication skills
This program provides the tools to not only conduct breakthrough research but also to present findings effectively and prepare for leadership roles in academia, industry, or national labs.
Why Choose UIC?
- Carnegie R1 University (very high research activity)
- A vibrant, multicultural campus in the heart of Chicago
- Access to state-of-the-art labs and research facilities
- Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration
Students at UIC’s College of Engineering gain exposure to real-world challenges, preparing them for high-impact careers in materials science, energy technology, electronics, and biomedical engineering.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates should prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Unofficial Academic Transcripts
- Brief Personal Statement — describe your background, career aspirations, and reasons for pursuing a PhD at UIC
Send application materials directly to Dr. Joshua W. Adkins at:
📧 jadkin3@uic.edu
For additional program details and institutional requirements, visit: UIC Graduate Admissions – CME Department
Key Information at a Glance
- Position: PhD in Experimental Materials Science & Engineering
- Start Date: Fall 2026
- Supervisor: Dr. Joshua W. Adkins
- Funding: Fully funded (stipend + tuition)
- Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Final Thoughts
This fully funded PhD position is a unique opportunity for ambitious students eager to make groundbreaking contributions in materials science, energy technologies, and next-generation electronics.
If you’re ready to advance your academic career and work at the cutting edge of experimental materials science, apply now and join UIC’s world-class research community.
✅ Don’t miss this chance to secure your place at the University of Illinois Chicago for Fall 2026.
