Two funded Ph.D. positions are available in Optofluidic Bio and Energy Systems (OBES) Laboratory at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, San Diego State University (SDSU). We look for highly motivated and hard-working candidates who have multi-disciplinary research experiences in the areas of:

  • Microfluidics, Optofluidics, Biofluidics
  • Electrowetting devices
  • Solar energy
  • Lab on a Chip
  • Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS)
  • Micro/nano manufacturing
  • Multi-physics computation

This Joint Doctoral Program (JDP) is offered jointly with the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and graduates will receive separate Ph.D. degrees from both institutions of SDSU and UCSD. Faculty at SDSU and UCSD collaborate closely in supervising the students as well. More information on the Engineering JDP can be found on the website: (https://www.engineering.sdsu.edu/admissions/joint-doctoral).

Research focus at the OBES Laboratory is on small-scale fluidic and interfacial phenomena such as electrowetting, triboelectric energy harvesting, and light-interacted micro/nanofluidic manipulation. We further develop novel nanomaterials and micro/nano systems for energy, health, and environmental applications. More information on our research activities can be found on the website (https://obes.sdsu.edu/). Candidates interested in the position are asked to send a resume and a transcript to Prof. Park at spark10@sdsu.edu.

If English is not your native language, the minimum TOEFL score of 85 is required. Applications for Fall 2025 will be accepted from Oct. 1 to Dec. 1, 2024.

The city of San Diego enjoys a mild climate year-round and is regarded as one of the most attractive metropolitan areas to live in the United States. The metropolitan area is the hub of several leading industries, including major defense contractors, and bio engineering and semiconductor companies.

Contact us:

Sean Park, Ph.D.

Associated Professor

Optofluidic Bio & Energy Systems (OBES) Laboratory

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Smart Health Institute

San Diego State University (SDSU)

5500 Campanile drive, San Diego, CA, 92182

Office: E-323H

Email: spark10@sdsu.edu