Positions

Ph.D. Student Position Available – Mechanobiology and Immunoengineering at Michigan Tech

The Han Lab (PI: Dr. Sangyoon Han) in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Michigan Technological University (MTU) is seeking a highly motivated and curious Ph.D. student to join our research team starting Spring or Fall 2026.

Our lab investigates how mechanical forces regulate immune cell function, with particular focus on mast cell mechanotransduction, traction force microscopy (TFM), and ECM-immune cell interactions in disease contexts such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). We combine advanced 3D culture systems, live-cell imaging, genetic manipulation, and computational force reconstruction to uncover how immune cells sense and respond to their physical environment.

The open position is supported by a grant from the Wallace Research Foundation, focused on investigating mechanosensitive regulation of mast cell degranulation. The incoming student will take over the project from our current researcher, who is graduating at the end of this fall. You will have the opportunity to lead the project, co-author high-impact publications, and collaborate with experts in immunology, mechanobiology, and matrix biology.

Ideal Candidate Qualifications:

·       Strong background in biomedical engineering, cell biology, biophysics, or a related field

·       Experience in molecular biology, microscopy, image analysis or cell culture (preferred but not required)

·       Interest in mechanotransduction, immune cell signaling, or quantitative imaging

·       Self-motivated, collaborative, and eager to learn

What We Offer:

·       Full funding (tuition + stipend)

·       Access to cutting-edge imaging, high-performance computers and microfabrication facilities

·       Mentorship in experimental design, grant writing, and scientific communication

·       A supportive and collaborative research environment in a beautiful natural setting

How to Apply: Please send the following to Dr. Sangyoon Han at sjhan@mtu.edu:

·       A brief cover letter describing your research interests and motivation

·       CV or resume

·       Undergraduate and/or graduate transcripts (unofficial is fine)

·       Contact information for 1–2 references

Sangyoon J. Han, Ph.D

Associate Professor and Principal Investigator

sjhan@mtu.edu

906-487-2897

Lab: HSTEM 357 and 304

Office: HSTEM 358

Spinning Disk Confocal / TIRF Microscope: HSTEM 357A

Optical Tweezers: HSTEM 357A