The Neuroimaging Lab directed by Dr. Yuanyuan Gao and Mechanobiology and Biomedicine Lab directed by Dr. David Long at Biomedical Engineering department at Wichita State University have a PhD position available starting from Spring 2025. This PhD student will be co-advised by Prof. David Long and Prof. Yuanyuan Gao. We are looking for candidates with interests in neuroimaging motion artifact simulation, utilizing finite element and Monte Carlo simulation tools. This project will solve the problem of how brain tissue deformation contributes to noise in optical neuroimaging signals.  

The successful candidate will be joining a diverse team performing edge-cutting research at the intersection of mechanical simulation and photon simulation to contribute to bioscience. This is an excellent opportunity for aspiring researchers who want to contribute to fundamental research projects with deep societal impact. 

For qualified PhD candidates, stipend and tuition will be provided. Continuation of financial support is contingent upon satisfactory academic/research performance and availability of funds.  

Minimum qualifications: 
Candidates must possess, at the beginning of their PhD study, at minimum an undergraduate degree or an equivalent degree in a technical/analytic area including, but not limited to, biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, and electrical/optical engineering. 

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Interests in computing or mathematics 

• Excellent interpersonal skills 

• Analytic, reasoning and problem-solving skills 

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Knowledge of the finite element method 

• Knowledge of Monte Carlo Simulation 

• Experience with Matlab or Python 

• Experience with human subject studies 

• Experience with high impact peer-review paper and grant writing 

Location: 
The position is in Wichita, KS, USA.  

How to apply: 
Please apply by sending your resume/CV and a cover letter to yuanyuan.gao@wichita.edu and david.long@wichita.edu. We welcome candidates who will bring diverse intellectual, geographical, gender and ethnic perspectives to Wichita’s campus communities. 

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