Ph.D. position:
Multiscale Modeling of Entangled Synthetic and Biological Polymers

We have several ongoing research projects funded with openings for motivated students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. Research focuses on the molecular modeling of polymeric materials, including both synthetic polymers and biological networks, such as actin filaments, intermediate filaments, microtubules and collagen. We seek to predict the mechanical and rheological properties of these materials . The ideal student will have a background in chemical or mechanical engineering, materials science, mathematics, or applied physics, and an interest in learning statistical mechanics, stochastics, continuum mechanics and rheology. Previous experience in these areas is a plus.

Prospective students are required to have a minimum combined GRE score of 1000 and Analytic Writing Score of 3. Applicants should be ready to provide a transcript of undergraduate grades and three letters of reference. Tuition is covered, and stipends begin at $18,000 per annum. Positions are available until filled, beginning as early as January 2009.

Students should be prepared to send their curriculum vitae.

Prof. Jay D. Schieber
Director: Center for molecular study of condensed soft matter (μCoSM), and
Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering
Illinois Institute of Technology
3440 S. Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois 60616
U.S.A.
Tel. 312.567.3046
Fax 312.567.8856
email: schieber@iit.edu
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Ph.D. student position
Thermal Transport in Complex Fluids

The flow of complex fluids such as molten plastics occurs in the fabrication of products ranging from soda bottles to microelectronic devices. Heat transfer in these flows plays a critical role in the design and operation of efficient processes as well as the properties of the final product. Beginning a decade ago, we have pioneered optical experiments directed towards understanding the coupling of heat transfer and fluid flow in polymeric materials. In particular, we have been making measurements of the thermal conductivity in flowing polymer liquids using a novel optical (light scattering) technique developed in our laboratory. The capabilities of this laboratory are unique. Details of the technique can be found in recent publications based on our research:

'Measurement of anisotropic energy transport in flowing polymers by using a holographic technique,' J.D. Schieber, D.C Venerus, V. Balasubramanian, K. Bush and S. Smoukov, Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci., 101, 13142_13146 (2004).

'Anisotropic thermal conduction in a polymer liquid subjected to shear flow,' D.C Venerus, J.D. Schieber, V. Balasubramanian, K. Bush and S. Smoukov, Phys. Rev. Lett., 93, 098301 (2004).

We have several ongoing projects funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) with openings for motivated students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in experimental research on thermal transport in complex fluids. The ideal student will have a background in chemical or mechanical engineering, materials science, or applied physics. Previous experience in rheology or optical experiments is a plus.

Prospective students are required to have a minimum combined GRE score of 1000 and Analytic Writing Score of 3. Applicants should be ready to provide a transcript of undergraduate grades and three letters of reference. Tuition is covered, and stipends begin at $18,000 per annum. Positions are available until filled, beginning as early as January 2009.

Interested candidates should contact either Professor David C. Venerus (venerus@iit.edu) or Professor Jay D. Schieber (schieber@iit.edu) and be prepared to send their curriculum vitae (with at least two references)

Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering
Illinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, Illinois, USA

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Post-doctoral Research Position in
Multiscale Modeling of Entangled Synthetic and Biological Polymers

A postdoctoral position in theoretical and computational molecular modeling for concentrated flexible or semi-flexible polymers is available. The ideal candidate will have some theoretical experience, with knowledge of statistical mechanics, stochastics, and programming. However, candidates with any relevant background are encouraged to apply. Duration of the project is one year, but renewal is possible. You will be part of a multidisciplinary center involving engineers, physicists, chemists and biologists with annual research expenditures exceeding $2m. You will interact with many theoreticians and experimentalists in complementary areas, and have access to high-performance computational facilities. Salary will be commensurate with experience and abilities. The position will be filled by the first qualified applicant.

Interested candidates should contact Jay Schieber with your detailed resume, statement of research interests, and contact information.

Prof. Jay D. Schieber
Director: Center for molecular study of condensed soft matter (μCoSM), and
Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering
Illinois Institute of Technology
3440 S. Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois 60616
U.S.A.
Tel. 312.567.3046
Fax 312.567.8856
email: schieber@iit.edu