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Welcome to Chu Biotechnology Lab
Our lab is in the Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at at Texas A&M University.
Our research interests are in enhancing our understanding of microbial-mediated processes in natural and engineered systems, and in developing novel biotechnologies to address various environmental problems and sustainable issues in water, soils, food, and energy.
The Chu lab uses applied microbiology, molecular biology, synthetic biology, isotopic techniques, chemical analysis, and phage biology to study environmental biological systems, with particular focus on (i) biodegradation and treatment of environmental pollutants such as emerging contaminants (PFAS, PPCPs, endocrine disruptors, antibiotics, plastics, munitions) and persistent organic pollutants (POPs), (ii) production of bioenergy and bioproducts from renewable resources and/or organic wastes, and (iii) detecting, tracking, and quantifying microorganisms that are important to water quality, bioremediation, phytoremediation, carbon sequestration and precious metals recovery. Other areas of research include the development and application of novel sorbents/catalysts for removing environmental pollutants and bioconcrete.
Ph.D. Student and Postdoc Positions Available
The ideal candidates must hold a Master of Science degree (for the Ph.D. positions) or a Ph.D. degree (for the postdoctoral position) in environmental engineering, environmental microbiology, chemical engineering, microbiology, or a related field, with specific expertise in laboratory methods in microbiology, molecular biology, synthetic biology, bioinformatics, or modeling.
Successful applicants will conduct research on biodegradation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various PFAS-impacted matrices, including soils, biosolids, water, and plants. They will also have opportunities to participate in other exciting ongoing projects, such as bioplastic production and biomining.
In addition, successful applicants should demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Applicants who are currently in the U.S. are highly encouraged to apply for the Fall 2026 or Spring 2027 admission cycle.
Applicants should submit the following materials as a single PDF file: (1) a one-page cover letter describing your interest in the project topics and summarizing your qualifications; (2) a résumé or CV; (3) up to two sample peer-reviewed publications; and (4) the names and contact information of three references.
Please email the PDF file to Dr. Kung-Hui (Bella) Chu (kchu@civil.tamu.edu) with the subject line “Chu lab_Ph.D app_YourLastName” or “Chu lab_Postdoc app_YourLastName”, as appropriate.
Applications that do not follow these instructions will not be reviewed. Only qualified candidates will be contacted for a video conference interview.
Interested in Joining Chu Biotechnology Lab?
We are always looking for self-motivated and talented undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoc scholars who can drive exciting new projects in environmental biotechnology. Please e-mail one-page research interest statement and your resume to Dr. Chu (kchu@civil.tamu.edu), with a subject line as “UG applicant_name”, “M.S. applicant _name”, Ph.D. applicant_name”, or “Postdoc applicant_name”.