INVIGORATE SIGMA
WE'LL RECIPROCATE
One Postdoc Position (open)
The Yazdani SIGMa lab invites applicants for one postdoc position in AI-assisted discovery of materials or multiscale simulation of composites available immediately. Only individuals meeting ALL of the following requirements are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
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Developing AI-assisted multiscale computational models
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Publishing papers
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Mentoring undergraduate research assistants
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Participating in collaborative opportunities beyond the project
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Assisting in developing grant proposals
Required Qualifications
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Ph.D. in mechanical or materials engineering or computational chemistry
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Experience with materials modeling software: Proficiency in LAMMPS, especially reactive MD, and at least one advanced FEM software
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Strong AI and machine learning background: In-depth knowledge of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques, with a focus on their application to materials science problems
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Research experience: A track record of conducting independent research in computational materials engineering, as evidenced by publications in reputable journals
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Programming skills: Proficiency in Python
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Exposure to materials characterization: Basic knowledge of experimental techniques for materials characterization and the ability to correlate computational predictions with experimental results
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Strong writing skills
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Demonstrated success in developing research proposals
- Positive attitude, growth mindset, passion, tenacity, time management skills, willingness to learn new things
Eligibility
Applicants must hold valid U.S. work authorization.
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Compensation package
Competitive salary, health insurance, mentorship opportunities, and intellectual property rights
Contact information
Interested individuals who meet all the requirements listed above are encouraged to send the following to Dr. Hessam Yazdani at hyazdani@missouri.edu:
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current CV
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contact information for two references
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a short statement describing why you would be a good fit and verifying that you meet all the requirements listed above
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sample first-author publications
Please put “Prospective Postdoc at SIGMa 2025” in the subject line to avoid having your email inadvertently overlooked.
NOTE: The review process may take up to one month. Do not to send follow-up inquiries during this period. Only candidates who meet all stated requirements will be notified of the outcome.
One PhD Position (open)
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The Yazdani SIGMa lab invites applicants for one Ph.D. position for a project on multiscale mechanics of polymer nanocomposites starting January 2026. Only individuals meeting ALL of the following requirements are encouraged to apply.
Required Qualifications
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BSc and MSc only in mechanical or civil engineering
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Strong background in multiscale modeling and simulation of materials (molecular dynamics AND FEM) and machine learning
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Familiarity with microscopy
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Strong writing skills
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Positive attitude, growth mindset, passion, tenacity, time management skills, willingness to learn new things
Responsibilities
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Fabricating, testing, and characterizing polymer composite samples
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Developing AI-assisted multiscale computational models
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Publishing papers
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Mentoring undergraduate research assistants
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Participating in collaborative opportunities beyond the project
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Collaborating on side projects
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Admission Requirements
https://gradschool.missouri.edu/policy/minimum-admission-requirements/
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Compensation package and contact information
Assistantship includes a monthly stipend, tuition support, and health insurance.
Contact information
Interested individuals who meet all the requirements listed above are encouraged to send the following to Dr. Hessam Yazdani at hyazdani@missouri.edu:
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current CV
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contact information for three references
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a short statement describing why you would be a good fit and verifying that you meet all the requirements listed above
Please put “Prospective PhD student in SIGMa - Sp 2026” in the subject line to avoid having your email inadvertently overlooked.
NOTE: The review process may take up to one month. Do not to send follow-up inquiries during this period. Only candidates who meet all stated requirements will be notified of the outcome.
Undergraduate Research Assistants
Paid URA positions are usually available in SIGMa. Strong willingness to learn independently, the ability to work as part of a collaborative team, and strong writing skills are required.
The selection process will be based on academic merit. Interested undergraduate students are encouraged to contact Dr. Yazdani at hyazdani@missouri.edu with a current CV.
