Explore fully funded PhD and postdoctoral research positions for 2025–2026 across top global universities — University of Vermont, UMass Amherst, Warsaw University of Technology, University of Queensland, and more. Apply now for PhD opportunities in engineering, materials science, acoustics, microplastics, and computing.
Fully Funded PhD and Postdoctoral Positions 2025–2026 | Apply for Global Research Openings
Are you ready to take the next big step in your academic and research career? The 2025–2026 cycle is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years for fully funded PhD and postdoctoral positions worldwide. With top universities across the U.S., Europe, and Australia announcing new opportunities, students and researchers from around the world can now apply to pursue advanced studies in engineering, physics, materials science, chemical engineering, acoustics, environmental research, and computational modeling.
🌎 1. University of Vermont (U.S.A.) – PhD Student & Postdoctoral Researcher Positions
The University of Vermont (UVM) invites applications for PhD and postdoctoral researcher positions to work under Professors Michael J. Leamy and Jihong Ma as part of the National Science Foundation’s New Frontiers of Sound (NewFoS) Science and Technology Center.
Research Focus
This prestigious opportunity centers on acoustic, electroacoustic, and elastic topological insulators and metamaterials — fields that bridge the gap between physics, materials science, and engineering innovation. Research will contribute to cutting-edge applications such as:
- Radio frequency device development
- Advanced communication systems
- Non-traditional computing and quantum mechanics
Ideal Candidate Profile
Applicants should hold degrees in engineering or physics and possess strong interest or experience in:
- Acoustics and material dynamics
- Topological states of matter
- Elastic and acoustic metamaterials
- Nonlinear dynamics and quantum computation
Candidates with hands-on experimental skills are particularly encouraged to apply.
Key Dates and Application
- Start Date: January 15, 2026 (flexible up to May 1, 2026)
- Contact:
- Prof. Jihong Ma – Jihong.Ma@uvm.edu
- Prof. Michael Leamy – michael.leamy@uvm.edu
Applicants should send a statement of interest, a summary of expertise, and their resume directly via email.
🏗️ 2. UMass Amherst – 3 Fully Funded PhD Openings in Structural Engineering & Mechanics
The Structural Engineering & Mechanics Group at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is recruiting three PhD students to contribute to transformative research in computational modeling, structural integrity, and advanced manufacturing.
Available Research Areas
1️⃣ Auxetic Steel Lattice Materials for Concrete Confinement
- Focus: Robotic assembly and mechanical analysis of re-entrant auxetic lattices.
- Goal: Improve concrete strength and ductility using lattice confinement techniques.
2️⃣ Computational Modeling of Corroded Steel Bridge Systems
- Focus: High-fidelity finite element simulations for corrosion analysis.
- Goal: Predict deterioration and assess redundancy in steel bridge systems.
3️⃣ Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing Repair of Steel Bridges
- Focus: Experimental and computational studies on cold-spray techniques.
- Goal: Advance sustainable repair methods for aging infrastructure.
Funding & Collaboration
All positions are fully funded through federal and state research grants and offer collaboration opportunities with MIT, MassDOT, and leading industry partners.
Desired Background
- Strong fundamentals in mechanics and structural engineering
- Experience with FEA, computational modeling, or metal additive manufacturing
- Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
📩 To apply, send your CV to sgerasimidis@umass.edu.
🌊 3. NSF REU Site – Gulf Coast Center for Addressing Microplastic Pollution (GC-CAMP)
The University of South Alabama has opened applications for the 2026 NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, titled GC-CAMP: Interdisciplinary Research to Address Microplastics in Gulf Coast Regions.
Program Overview
- Duration: May 26, 2026 – July 31, 2026
- Application Deadline: February 15, 2026
- Location: University of South Alabama Campus
- Apply through: ETAP NSF Portal
What You’ll Do
Selected students will engage in hands-on research focused on detecting, measuring, and mitigating microplastics in coastal ecosystems. The program combines environmental science, materials engineering, and sustainability studies.
Benefits
- Competitive stipend of $7,000
- On-campus housing and transportation support
- Mentorship from professors and graduate researchers
- Networking and professional development programs
Eligibility
- Open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents
- Students from any major are welcome
- Ten participants will be selected for the 2026 cohort
🌱 Learn more: Official REU Site
💻 4. University of Tulsa – PhD Positions in Computer Science
The University of Tulsa is offering open PhD positions in Computer Science with research specialization in:
- Deep Reinforcement Learning
- Graph Learning
- Probabilistic Graphical Models
Candidate Profile
Applicants should have a strong computational background with research or project experience in AI, data-driven modeling, or theoretical computer science.
📧 To apply, send your CV to mahdi-khodayar@utulsa.edu.
⚛️ 5. Warsaw University of Technology (Poland) – Fully Funded PhD in Experimental 2D Materials for Hydrogen Production
The Warsaw University of Technology (WUT) is offering a fully funded PhD position under the NCN Opus 27 project “DELTA”, focused on designing novel 2D layered materials for hydrogen production via alloy engineering.
Research Focus
The selected PhD student will conduct experimental research in:
- Structural and optical characterization of 2D alloys (MXenes, MBenes)
- Photo-electro-chemical processes (HER/OER)
- Advanced spectroscopic and microscopic techniques
Techniques Involved
- In-operando Raman & FTIR spectroscopy
- X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS)
- Scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM, TEM, STEM)
- Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis
Candidate Requirements
- Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Physics
- Experience in advanced materials characterization
- Strong English communication skills
- Motivated for experimental laboratory research
📩 Submit your CV and motivation letter to agnieszka.jastrzebska@pw.edu.pl.
🧪 6. University of Queensland (Australia) – Fully Funded PhD in Chemical Engineering
The University of Queensland (UQ) invites candidates to apply for a fully funded PhD position in Chemical Engineering, focusing on efficient hydrogen storage using hydrogen gas hydrates.
Scholarship Details
- Living Stipend: $36,400 per annum (2025 rate, tax-free)
- Tuition: Fully covered
- Scholarship Type: Research project-based scholarship
Research Scope
This project integrates chemical thermodynamics, materials science, and energy storage engineering, contributing to the development of next-generation hydrogen technologies.
Candidate Requirements
- IELTS score of 6.5 overall (no sub-score below 6.0)
- Demonstrated publication record
- Strong interest in sustainable energy and hydrogen systems
📎 Full details and application portal: UQ PhD Opportunity
🎯 How to Choose the Right PhD Opportunity
Selecting the right research program requires careful consideration of academic interests, faculty expertise, and institutional resources. Here’s how you can make an informed decision:
- Identify Your Core Research Passion:
Focus on subjects that genuinely motivate you — whether it’s computational modeling, materials research, or environmental sustainability. - Evaluate Faculty Mentorship:
Review recent publications, active projects, and collaborations of potential supervisors. - Check Funding and Duration:
Fully funded positions cover tuition and stipends; ensure clarity on renewal conditions and duration. - Consider Career Pathways:
Choose programs offering exposure to industry collaborations, international conferences, and cross-disciplinary learning. - Prepare Application Materials Early:
Tailor your statement of purpose (SOP), research proposal, and resume to match the specific focus areas of each project.
🌍 Benefits of Fully Funded PhD Programs
Pursuing a fully funded PhD offers immense academic and professional benefits:
- Zero Tuition Costs: Universities cover all academic fees, allowing you to focus solely on research.
- Monthly Stipend: Most programs offer living allowances ranging from $25,000 to $40,000 annually.
- Access to Advanced Facilities: Work with high-end equipment, computational clusters, and interdisciplinary research labs.
- Global Collaborations: Network with researchers from leading universities and institutions.
- Pathway to Academia & Industry: Graduates often transition into faculty roles, R&D departments, or innovation startups.
📚 Pro Tips for Applicants
To maximize your success, follow these proven strategies:
- Contact Supervisors Early: Initiate email contact with potential advisors months before deadlines.
- Demonstrate Research Readiness: Highlight any publications, theses, or technical projects.
- Show Interdisciplinary Skills: Connect your background to multiple fields like AI, materials, or environmental science.
- Secure Strong References: Professors’ recommendations are vital for selection committees.
- Proofread Every Submission: A well-written, error-free application reflects professionalism.
🧭 The 2025–2026 academic cycle opens doors to some of the most prestigious fully funded PhD and postdoctoral positions worldwide. From UVM’s metamaterials research to UMass Amherst’s structural innovation, Warsaw University’s hydrogen production breakthroughs, and UQ’s sustainable energy projects, these opportunities represent the forefront of scientific advancement.
Whether you aspire to contribute to next-generation materials, AI-driven simulations, or environmental sustainability, these programs offer the perfect platform to grow as a global researcher.
Start preparing your application, reach out to potential supervisors, and take the leap into a future of discovery, innovation, and academic excellence. 🌐
