We are seeking PhD students (starting in Fall 2023 or earlier) and postdoctoral researchers with interests in one or more of the areas: nanophotonics, opto-fluidics, thermal fluids, optical manipulation, optical sensing, optical MEMS, lab on a chip, single-cell technology, nanorobotics, nano-architected materials (metasurfaces/metamaterials), and machine learning. By leveraging experiments, simulations, and theories in a collaborative environment, we pursue interdisciplinary research in emerging fields and solve interesting complex problems. As shown in the poster below, our current projects range from fundamental understanding of light-matter interactions at the nanoscale to development of new optical manipulation and measurement technologies for applications in biomedicine, health, green energy, environmental sustainability, and information technology. Students are also encouraged to initiate and lead new projects that are different from the existing ones. 

We welcome students from various majors, which include but not limited to Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Nanotechnology, and Computer Science. Prospective students can apply to our graduate programs in Mechanical Engineering (area of study: Materials Engineering) or Materials Science and Engineering (where you can indicate your interested faculty). We also welcome visiting students, scholars and faculty. As a prospective group member, you will have the opportunity to work with a passionate and skilled team of researchers and be at the forefront of cutting-edge research that has the potential to make a significant impact on society. For inquiry, please send your CV to zheng@austin.utexas.edu (Please note that not all emails will be replied.)