Ph.D. Opportunity in Indoor Air Quality Research at University of Cincinnati – Applications Open for Spring 2026

Apply for a Ph.D. in Indoor Air Quality Research at University of Cincinnati. Work on VOCs, aerosols, IAQ sensing. Spring 2026 intake. Email Dr. Tianren Wu.

🌬️ Ph.D. in Indoor Air Quality – University of Cincinnati | Spring 2026 Admissions

Are you passionate about indoor air quality (IAQ), environmental engineering, or atmospheric science? The Indoor Air Quality Lab at the University of Cincinnati, led by Dr. Tianren Wu, is seeking a driven Ph.D. candidate to kickstart rigorous research into aerosols, VOCs, IAQ sensing and mitigation strategies in Spring 2026. This is a premier opportunity to work on interdisciplinary research blending environmental exposure, advanced instrumentation, and data analysis, all within a supportive, world-class academic environment.

✅ Why This Opportunity is Unique & Impactful

• Cutting-edge Research: Tackle real-world environmental health challenges like VOC exposure in built environments, ozone-derived organic molecules, and sensor technology.

• State-of-the-art Instrumentation: Gain hands-on experience with mass spectrometry (CIMS), aerosol measurement tools, low-cost sensor integration, and IAQ control platforms.

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work at the intersection of Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, and Analytical Chemistry.

• Scholarly Development: Enhance publication profile, technical writing, and presentation skills in top-tier journals and conferences.

🧪 Research Areas & Project Focus

Dr. Wu’s lab focuses on 4 interlinked research paths:

1. Highly Oxygenated Organic Molecules (HOMs) from Skin Oils

• Leverage advanced chemical ionization mass spectrometry (CIMS) to track HOMs formed via ozone-skin lipid reactions.

• Investigate chemical pathways and indoor pollutant sources, crucial for human exposure modeling.

2. Low-Cost VOC Sensors for IAQ Monitoring

• Evaluate accuracy and drift of commercial low-cost VOC sensors.

• Develop calibration tools and integrate sensor networks into building ventilation control.

3. Indoor Air Pollutants in Public Facilities

• Analyze VOCs, particulate matter, humidity, and temperature in environments like aquatic centers.

• Model inhalation exposure across different age groups and activity levels.

4. Indoor Air Cleaning Technologies

• Quantify pollutant removal efficiency of air cleaners (e.g., HEPA, photocatalytic).

• Identify potential by-products formed during operation and assess health implications.

🎓 Candidate Qualifications

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Background

   • Bachelor’s in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Atmospheric Chemistry, Environmental Science, Chemistry or related field.

   • Master’s degree preferred, but not mandatory.

2. Technical Experience

   • Lab experience with mass spectrometry, aerosol instruments, or trace gas analysis.

   • Strong programming skills in MATLAB, Python, R, or IGOR.

3. Academic Standing

   • Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).

4. Communication & Research Skills

   • Proficient in technical writing and verbal communication.

   • Ability to summarize research findings and draft scientific manuscripts.

📋 Application Requirements

Please consolidate the following documents into a single PDF and send via email to Dr. Tianren Wu (wutr@ucmail.uc.edu) with subject line "PhD Student Application_Your Name":

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae

• Cover letter (2 pages max): explain research experience, interests (e.g., mass spectrometry, IAQ), and career goals.

• Technical writing sample: journal article, thesis excerpt, or lab report.

• Unofficial transcripts – PDF copies of all undergraduate/graduate transcripts.

• References: contact information for 2 academic/professional referees.

• TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable – international students).

🎓 Deadline: Strongly recommend applying by Fall 2025 to secure funding and admission for Spring 2026 semester.

🏫 About Dr. Tianren Wu & the IAQ Lab

• Dr. Tianren Wu: Tenured Associate Professor in Civil and Architectural Engineering and Construction Management at the University of Cincinnati.

• Lab Mission: Explore indoor pollutant fate, develop low-cost IAQ sensors, manage VOC exposure, and implement mitigation through engineering controls.

• Facilities & Equipment: Fully equipped with high-resolution mass spectrometers, real-time aerosol monitors, and dedicated IAQ test chambers.

Visit Dr. Wu’s website to learn more about ongoing projects and research methodologies: tianrenwu.com.

📚 University of Cincinnati Civil Engineering Ph.D.

• Department: Civil and Architectural Engineering and Construction Management (CEACM)

• Ph.D. Focus: Wastewater treatment, IAQ, structural engineering, urban water systems.

• General admission requirements:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from recognized institutions.

  • Minimum GPA 3.0.

  • Standardized test scores (GRE is optional/waived).

  • English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) for international applicants.

  • Supporting documents – letters of recommendation, statement of purpose.

• Learn more about the Ph.D. path:
  CEAS Civil Engineering PhD Program

🌍 Why Pursue a Ph.D. in IAQ at Cincinnati?

1. Strong Program Reputation

   • UC ranks in the top 100 for Environmental/Climate Engineering and Civil Engineering.

   • Proven track record in funding and IAQ research.

2. Collaboration Network

   • Collaborate with local government, building managers, and public health institutions on indoor air interventions.

3. Funding & Support

   • Funded Ph.D. assistantships are likely for top candidates, covering tuition and living stipend.

4. Career & Global Impact

   • Graduates move into academia, consulting, government agencies like EPA, and industry roles focusing on indoor air and building health.

🧭 Tips for a Competitive Application

• Early Outreach: Email Dr. Wu as soon as possible with your CV and statement of interest.

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize lab techniques, instrumentation, sensor work, and coding abilities (MATLAB, Python).

• Showcase Publications/Projects: Upload sample research reports, conference presentations, or coursework related to IAQ.

• Strong References: Secure recommendations from professors or employers familiar with your academic or technical excellence.

• Craft a Persuasive Cover Letter: Connect your background and aspirations with Dr. Wu’s research themes.

📈 Career Paths After Graduation

Possible trajectories include:

• Research Scientist / Postdoctoral Fellow – in IAQ, aerosol chemistry, instrumentation labs.

• Indoor Air Consultant – advising building developers and healthcare facilities.

• Sensor/Product Developer – designing calibration and data management pipelines.

• Academic Professor – leading future research and labs.

Your training will be transferable to fields like climate change, exposure science, and environmental health globally.

🗓️ Timeline & Priority Checklist

✅ Summary of Key Details

• Location: University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA

• Start Date: Spring semester, January 2026

• Research Focus: Aerosols, VOC exposure, IAQ sensing and mitigation

• Key Equipment: CIMS, low-cost sensors, aerosol monitors

• Ideal Candidate: Bachelor’s or Master’s in Env Eng, Atmospheric Science, or related field, with lab and programming skills

📌 This Ph.D. opportunity in Indoor Air Quality at University of Cincinnati offers ambitious candidates a chance to contribute meaningfully to environmental health, mastering advanced instrumentation, IAQ modeling, and control strategies. With the backing of a focused research lab and an engineering department known for its strength in civil and environmental disciplines, this role is poised to launch high-impact careers.

If you’re ready to commit, learn, and innovate at the intersection of science, technology, and public welfare, now is the time to reach out and apply. Best of luck with your application—your work could directly contribute to healthier, cleaner indoor environments globally.

📩 Ready to Apply? Email your single-PDF application to Dr. Tianren Wu at wutr@ucmail.uc.edu with the subject line:

PhD Student Application_Your Name