Fully Funded Baylor University PhD Opportunity in Environmental Chemistry & Nanotechnology (2026)
Fully Funded Baylor University PhD Opportunity in Environmental Chemistry & Nanotechnology (2026).
The Gao Lab at Baylor University’s Department of Environmental Science is offering two fully funded Ph.D. positions starting in Fall 2026.
These positions focus on groundbreaking research in environmental nanotechnology, sustainable agriculture, and machine learning-driven ecological risk analysis.
This program is ideal for ambitious students seeking to contribute to next-generation environmental solutions while receiving world-class mentorship, training, and exposure to global research.
Successful applicants will join an R1 research institution (the highest level of research activity in U.S. universities), where they will receive individualized academic guidance and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
Applicants should have academic training in:
- Environmental Chemistry or Environmental Engineering
- Chemistry
- Materials Science & Engineering
- Chemical & Biological Engineering
- Or other related fields.
The program is designed for students passionate about environmental innovation, nanomaterial design, and data-driven sustainability research.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Background:
- A Master’s degree is preferred, but exceptional candidates with a Bachelor’s degree will also be considered.
Academic Performance:
A minimum GPA of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) in core coursework.
Strong foundation in chemistry, materials science, or environmental sciences.
Language Proficiency (International Students):
- TOEFL: Minimum 80
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5
- English communication will also be evaluated via the application and interview.
Additional Requirements:
- Demonstrated scientific writing and communication skills.
- Motivation for research careers in academia or industry.
- Willingness to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary, multicultural environment.
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Academic record and research experience in relevant fields.
- Strength of the cover letter, including research interests and career goals.
- Letters of reference attesting to academic potential and teamwork ability.
- Interview performance (shortlisted candidates will be invited for a Zoom interview).
- Fit with Gao Lab research priorities, including nanomaterial design, environmental analytics, and machine learning applications.
Eligible Countries
- Open to all nationalities.
- Applicants from underrepresented groups in science are strongly encouraged to apply.
Documents Required
Applicants should send a single PDF file to Dr. Xiaoyu Gao (xiaoyu_gao@baylor.edu) with the subject line:
“PhD application – [Your Name]”
The PDF must include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Transcripts (unofficial copies acceptable for initial review)
Cover Letter (1–2 pages) detailing:
- Intended start date
- Educational background
- Research experience and technical skills
- Career goals
- Contact information for two references
Benefits of the Baylor University PhD Opportunity in Environmental Chemistry & Nanotechnology
- Full financial support: Competitive $30,000/year stipend plus full tuition coverage.
- Hands-on mentorship: Direct supervision by Dr. Xiaoyu Gao with structured career development guidance.
- Advanced research tools: Access to state-of-the-art instrumentation, including LC-MS/MS, LA-ICP-MS, and TOF-SIMS.
- Prestigious collaborations: Opportunities to partner with Argonne National Lab, McGill University, and more.
- International exposure: Potential to conduct experiments at Stanford SSRL, APS (Argonne), ESRF (France), and other world-class synchrotron facilities.
- Professional growth: Funding for conference participation, outreach initiatives, and scientific publications.
- Collaborative research culture: A multidisciplinary, multicultural lab environment fostering innovation and teamwork.
How to Apply
- Prepare your application package (single PDF with CV, transcripts, cover letter, and references).
- Send to Dr. Xiaoyu Gao at xiaoyu_gao@baylor.edu with the email subject line:
- “PhD application – [Your Name]”.
- Application review begins on December 1, 2025, and continues until both positions are filled.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a Zoom interview.
- Successful candidates will complete the formal admission process through Baylor University’s Graduate School
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Start preparing early to secure your spot in this competitive program and become part of a global research community shaping the future of environmental science.
