Post-doctoral position at Univ. Pittsburgh: Reversibly-morphing surfaces

A post-doctoral position is available in the Dept. of Chemical Engineering at the
University of Pittsburgh to conduct experimental research on developing
"morphing surfaces" that change topology by developing features such
as bumps, folds, spikes, etc. The post-doctoral fellow will develop (1)
surfaces that undergo a change in topology in response to applied stimuli, (2)
methods to control the shape and location of the morphing features on the
surface, and (3) quantitative or heuristic models to guide the design of
texture-changing surfaces.

The ideal candidate will have an experimental research background in at least one
of the following areas: (1) smart materials (e.g. shape memory alloys,
electroactive  polymers, artificial muscles, etc.), or (2) composite materials and mechanics, or (3) soft materials (soft biological tissues, elastomers, hydrogels, etc.), or (4) robotics.  

This research is motivated by the amazing camouflage abilities of cephalopods
(octopus or cuttlefish), which depend - in part - on changing the texture of
their skin. This fellowship is funded by a grant from the U.S. Air
Force.  The post-doctoral fellow will have substantial independence in
pursuing his/her own research ideas, and will be able to mentor graduate or
undergraduate students. This project also offers opportunities to become
involved in research on biomechanics and biomimetics, as well as conducting
numerical simulations. Accordingly, this fellowship would be an excellent
platform to launch an independent career. 

A commitment of roughly 1.5 years is expected, although a somewhat
shorter or longer period can be considered. Interested candidates should email velankars@gmail.com

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Sachin Velankar

Associate Professor

Dept. of Chemical Engineering

University of Pittsburgh

PA 15261 USA

Ph. 412-624-9984

Em. velankars@gmail.com

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