The Fix Lab, housed within the Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, is seeking applicants for a fully funded (tuition + stipend) PhD position in Civil Engineering under the direction of Dr. Andrew Fix. The Fix Lab works within the intersection of energy, water, and buildings, with a particular emphasis on high-efficiency, next-generation thermal systems. Technologies of particular interest include: water vapor selective membranes, liquid desiccants, metal-organic frameworks (MOF), thermal storage, and refrigerant-free cooling technologies. Applications include: HVAC in buildings, atmospheric water harvesting, water re-use, industrial processes, electrical load-shifting, and more. The student will develop expertise in both modeling and experimental methods. Furthermore, the student will have ample opportunities to collaborate and network within academia, industry, and national labs.
Preferred Qualifications:
Candidates should possess many, though not necessarily all, of the following: • A master’s (preferred) or bachelor’s degree in civil, mechanical, or architectural engineering (or a related field with a track record of transferrable skills).
Strong foundation in a few of the following areas: HVAC systems and components, thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, materials science, thermal systems, building energy modeling, and gas separations.
Programming experience in one or more of the following: Python, MATLAB, Engineering Equation Solver, and Modelica. Familiarity with SolidWorks design or related CAD software.
- Experience designing scientific experiments and prototypes.
Strong English language skills, particularly in technical reading/writing/presenting. - Self-motivated, driven to develop solutions both independently and in a team environment.
- Prior research experience preferred, especially experience that resulted in publications/presentations.
Appointment Details:
This position is intended to start in January 2025, however an August 2025 start date can also be accommodated. Students must first apply and be admitted to the Civil Engineering graduate program. Please select the Building Energy and Environments (BEE) research area when applying. See the graduate application website for complete details on the application process and requirements.
About UT Austin:
The Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering is ranked #3 in graduate civil engineering programs in the U.S., and Austin is the #9 best city to live in. Positioned in a vibrant, laid-back community renowned for its live music and food scene, UT Austin is uniquely situated to offer excellent opportunities for both graduate studies and social life. Enjoy the many parks and outdoor
attractions, shop eclectic small businesses downtown, and discover many more adventures in the greater Austin
area while earning your degree at a renowned university!
How to Apply: Please send Dr. Fix an email (fix ‘AT” utexas.edu) and include the following: (1) an updated
CV; (2) a one-page research statement or statement of purpose which highlights your research experience,
technical skills, future interests, and career goals; and (3) unofficial transcripts (both undergraduate and
graduate, if applicable). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Please visit
https://fixresearch.com to learn more.