Lao Research Lab (Environmental Control Materials Lab) in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Syracuse Center of Excellence in Environmental and Energy Systems (SyracuseCoE) at Syracuse University is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the team.

The lab focuses on understanding the interaction among the human body, buildings and environment, and improving their performance by developing advanced materials and smart systems. Current research aims to design smart materials for thermal, moisture and air quality management for the human body and the built environment to maintain comfortable levels while reducing energy consumption. Biomimetic approaches are emphasized for the materials design and engineering based on polymers, fibers, textiles, soft materials, smart materials and advanced manufacturing. The Postdoctoral Researcher will work on the research topics include but are not limited to: 1) Design of smart materials (e.g., stimuli responsive materials, bio-inspired design, 3D printing), 2) Personal thermal and moisture management (e.g., smart textiles, surface wettability, thermal regulation, directional liquid transport), 3) Smart building and environment control (e.g., thermal regulation, ventilation control, air quality improvement). The Postdoctoral Researcher also has the opportunity to propose and define specific focus of his/her work in a broad materials area.

For broadening the training, the Postdoctoral Researcher will also have the opportunity and will be encouraged to exchange and collaborate with other faculty members and industrial partners associated with SyracuseCoE covering research ranging from material scales, to building, neighborhood and urban scales, and to regional, continental and global climate scales. This is a full-time position beginning in Spring or Fall 2025. The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of renewal, depending on the availability of funding and performance.