Openings

The M4L Lab is looking for one Ph.D. student. The successful applicant will work with Dr. David Cereceda on interdisciplinary research topics that involve Computational Mechanics, First-principles calculations, Nuclear Science and Engineering, and Machine Learning. The position starts as early as Spring 2025. Evaluations will start immediately until the positions are filled. Please, see the description of each position below.

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Position 1: Ph.D. student

Topic: First-principles calculations of structural fusion energy materials

The goal of the project is to investigate the mechanical response of tungsten-based alloys exposed to fusion-like environments by using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory.

Qualifications​:

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, or related disciplines.

• Prior experience in solid-state density-functional theory computations (VASP, QE).

• Prior experience with High-Performance Computing is desirable but not required.

• Willingness and motivation to work in a highly interdisciplinary field. 

Starting date: as early as Spring 2025.

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How to apply

Interested candidates are invited to email Dr. David Cereceda (david.cereceda@villanova.edu) with their latest CV, a statement describing their research experience and interests, B.S. and M.S. transcripts, English test scores (foreign applicants), and the contact information for 3 references, all as email attachments in PDF format. This and any other specific inquiries should be addressed with “#Name: Ph.D. applicant-Spring-2025 - Position #(indicate number 1,2, or 3)”  in the subject line. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit these materials to Dr. David Cereceda before submitting the online application at Villanova University.