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#PhDPosition, #BiomedicalEngineering,  #Neuroergonomics, #Neuroenvironment, #EEG, #fNIRS, #MRI, #Neuroscience, #Cognition

Position Description

The Department of Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering, along with our interdisciplinary research team comprising experts in Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Neuroscience, and Computer Science at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), invites applications for a Ph.D. student position, starting in Spring or Fall 2025. The successful candidate will engage in cutting-edge research utilizing electroencephalography (EEG), functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and/or functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) technologies to explore neuroergonomics and neuroenvironmental design applications in architecture and construction. This position is particularly suitable for candidates with a background in biomedical engineering, neuroscience, or civil/architectural engineering interested in applying their expertise to improve human interactions with built environments.

Key Research Areas

Neuroergonomics: Optimizing work environments and systems through understanding brain and behavior interactions.

Neuroenvironmental Design: Examining the impact of various architectural design and environments (e.g., temperature) on brain function and behavior.

Ideal candidates will possess a strong academic background in disciplines such as Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Architectural Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Cognitive Psychology. Key qualifications include:

• Excellent communication skills


• Experience with EEG, fNIRS or fMRI


• Proven success in academic coursework and research


• Compliance with WPI’s Graduate School requirements (https://www.wpi.edu/admissions/graduate/how-to-apply?itemId=item-27)

A research assistantship, inclusive of a tuition waiver and a financial stipend, will be provided. You will be engaged in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of biomedical engineering, neuroscience, architecture, and construction.  

To apply:  Official applications should be completed using the online portal (https://gradapp.wpi.edu/apply/). Please also email a detailed Curriculum Vitae including GPA and TOEFL/IELTS score to Dr. Shichao Liu at sliu8@wpi.edu. GRE is recommended but not required. Please include the phrase “PhD applicant 2026” in the Subject line of the email.