Research positions

Ph.D. positions

Ph.D. positions are occasionally available to students interested in experimental and computational analysis of transport phenomena in energy systems. Please see the Research and Publications pages for examples of possible topics.

Students can enter the Ph.D. program through the direct entry (no M.S. degree) or advanced entry (previous M.S. degree) options.

Prospective Ph.D. students interested in working with us should list that they are interested in working with Prof. Litster in their application. 

The availability of positions in our lab depends on applicant qualifications and the availability of funding. Applicants are highly encouraged to apply for the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program and similar awards. Lab funded positions are occasionally available for top candidates.

M.S. Positions

M.S. research positions are available for students in the two-year project M.S. Research option. This degree program prepares students for advanced positions in industry as well as possible future research in a Ph.D. program. These positions are self-supported and applicants are encouraged to find outside funding.  Students who are likely to continue to a Ph.D. should consider the direct entry Ph.D. program.

Students interested in a 2-year research project with our lab should submit an application to the Department of Mechanical Engineering and list that they are interested in working with Prof. Litster.

B.S. Research Positions

Undergraduate research experience can be instrumental in progressing to top-level graduate school and industry positions. Undergraduate students who are interested in our research and would like to gain hands-on experience are encouraged to contact us (litster@andrew.cmu.edu). Include your CV with current QPA and a listing of relevant courses you have taken with your grades.