Ph.D. Position in Biological Engineering
The Microbial Electrochemical Technology Laboratory (MET Lab), led by Dr. Luguang Wang in the Department of Biological Engineering at Utah State University (USU), is seeking one highly motivated Ph.D. student to join the lab in Spring 2026 (preferred) or Fall 2026. The successful applicant will conduct research on microbial electrochemical systems for converting negative-cost waste into value-added products, such as bioenergy and microbial protein. The position offers full financial support, including a research stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance.
Position Qualifications
A bachelor’s or master’s degree in biological engineering, environmental engineering, chemical engineering, or a closely related field. Students with science degrees in relevant areas are also encouraged to apply.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving ability, and a commitment to academic excellence.
Previous research experience in environmental biotechnology and/or microbial electrochemical systems is highly desirable. Related experience in biological, environmental, or chemical engineering research is also valuable.
Application Instructions
Interested applicants should email Dr. Wang (luguang.wang@usu.edu) with a single PDF file containing the following:
A one-page cover letter describing research background, relevant experience, and career goals
Curriculum Vitae (C.V.)
Official or unofficial transcripts
Contact information for three references
About Dr. Luguang Wang
Dr. Wang is a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Engineering at Utah State University, having joined in August 2023. Before USU, he was a postdoctoral fellow at Johns Hopkins University and a research associate at Oregon State University, where he also earned his Ph.D. in Biological and Ecological Engineering. His doctoral work, under Dr. Hong Liu, focused on bioenergy and bioproduct production using microbial electrolysis cells. Dr. Wang holds a B.S. degree from Shandong University, China. His research spans microbial electrochemical technologies, bioenergy, bioproducts, and biosystem modeling using machine learning. He has published in leading journals such as Chemical Engineering Journal, ACS Catalysis, Water Research, Bioresource Technology, Environmental Science: Nano, and International Journal of Hydrogen Energy.
About Utah State University
Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant and space-grant university, serving over 27,500 students statewide through multiple campuses and education centers. As an R1 research institution, USU offers high-quality graduate education at an affordable cost and is renowned for its strengths in engineering, proudly recognized as “Utah’s Engineering University.” Learn more at usu.edu/about.
The Department of Biological Engineering (BE) is a dynamic and growing program with approximately 200 undergraduate students, 35 master’s and Ph.D. students, and 16 faculty members. BE faculty conduct research in diverse areas, including biofuels, bionanomaterials, tissue engineering, metabolic engineering, gene vectors, and waste-to-bioproducts. Graduate alumni go on to careers in industry, federal agencies, and academia. The BE graduate program is ranked 33rd nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2025). More information is available at engineering.usu.edu/be.
About Logan and Cache Valley
Logan, located in northern Utah and just a 90-minute drive from Salt Lake City, is a vibrant and welcoming college town set in the picturesque Cache Valley. Frequently ranked among the safest and most livable cities in the U.S., Logan offers a close-knit community with low crime rates and a high quality of life. The cost of living is significantly lower than in many other research and university towns, making it an affordable and attractive place to live and study.
Nestled between the Bear River Mountains and fertile farmlands, Cache Valley is known for its natural beauty and four-season outdoor recreation. Hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, fishing, and kayaking are all easily accessible within a short drive. Logan Canyon, a nearby scenic byway, offers breathtaking views and direct access to Beaver Mountain Ski Resort and Bear Lake, a regional gem often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies.” Whether you seek outdoor adventure or peaceful natural surroundings, Logan provides an inspiring and balanced environment for graduate studies.
Institution contact information
Luguang Wang, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Biological Engineering
Utah State University
4105 Old Main Hill
Logan UT, 84322-4105
Email: luguang.wang@usu.edu
Deadline
15/10/2025
