Summary
The Soft & Integrated Systems Lab (SISL) at Texas Tech University (TTU) invites applications for PhD scholarship positions for the Spring/Fall 2027 intake. These fully-funded opportunities are available for highly motivated students interested in pioneering research in Soft Robotics and Soft MEMS. Successful candidates will receive full financial support, including tuition and a stipend, and will have access to advanced research facilities and interdisciplinary collaborations.
PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Soft & Integrated Systems Lab (SISL) at Texas Tech University (2027 Spring/Fall)
Designation
PhD Student / Research Assistant
Scholarship Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | PhD Program |
| Financial Support | Full financial support (tuition + stipend; fees not included) |
| Research Environment | Opportunities to publish in leading journals, present at international conferences, access to advanced research facilities, and interdisciplinary collaboration. |
| Fellowships | Competitive applicants may be nominated for university-level fellowships providing substantial stipend supplements, tuition support, and research/travel funding. Potential opportunities include:
|
Research Areas
The SISL lab is seeking PhD candidates for research in the following areas:
Soft Robotics (1 position)
- Soft actuators based on smart materials (e.g., SMP, LCE)
- Soft robotics for extreme environments (e.g., aerospace applications)
- Wearable and biomedical devices
Soft MEMS (1 position)
- Microfabrication and microsystems
- MEMS transfer printing and automation
- Advanced 3D chip manufacturing (double-sided, stacked integration)
- Soft microrobotics
Location
Soft & Integrated Systems Lab (SISL), Texas Tech University (TTU)
Eligibility/Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
- English proficiency scores for international students (one of the following):
- Duolingo: 100
- TOEFL IBT: 79 or 4 (new)
- IELTS: 6.5
- PTE: 60
- CPE: 180
- CAE: 175
- ELS: 112
Preferred (Not Required) Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a related field.
- Hands-on experience in microfabrication or experimental research.
- Background in robotics and control.
- Programming skills (Python, C++, MATLAB).
- CAD/FEA tools (Creo, AutoCAD, ABAQUS, COMSOL).
- Prior research experience (publications or projects).
Scholarship Description
The SISL at TTU offers fully funded PhD positions for students passionate about cutting-edge research in Soft Robotics and Soft MEMS. These positions provide comprehensive financial support covering tuition and a stipend, enabling students to focus entirely on their academic and research pursuits. Scholars will benefit from a dynamic research environment, opportunities to publish in top-tier journals, present at international conferences, and collaborate with leading experts. The lab is equipped with advanced facilities to support innovative work in smart materials, microfabrication, and advanced manufacturing. Competitive applicants will also be considered for various university and college-level fellowships that offer additional financial benefits and support for research and travel.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send the following documents via email:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic Transcript
Email: C.Son@ttu.edu
For any inquiries, please feel free to contact Dr. ChangHee Son directly at the provided email address.
Last Date for Apply
Until position filled
Apply Link
Please apply by sending your documents to C.Son@ttu.edu.






