The BIRD lab aims to bring in trainees that are highly motivated, independent thinkers who are seeking to enhance their multi-disciplinary approaches both through the development of their technical aptitude and interpersonal communication skills.
I do not expect that incoming trainees have a background in both biology and engineering. I value hiring trainees with diverse backgrounds and skill sets. If you are interested in the work, but unsure if your educational background is the correct fit, I encourage you to reach out to me directly.
Importantly, trainees are expected to maintain and promote an environment that prioritizes inclusivity, safety, and the highest quality of scientific studies. Please review the lab Goals for additional details.
If you are interested in joining my group, please reach out and we can discuss fellowship or grant opportunities.
There are open opportunities in the lab for work on bird wing structure, morphing wing design, camera vision, and flight dynamics. I am a member of the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Animal Behavior Graduate Groups, and can supervise students in either program.
PhD and masters students who are interested in joining my lab are encouraged to reach out to me directly.
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering offers:
M.S. Plan I - Thesis-based
M.S. Plan II - Project-based
PhD
Animal Behavior offers:
PhD
Timing: I usually only begin interviewing graduate students for open positions in early fall as it allows enough time for your application to be sent in for late fall. UC Davis only admits graduate students once a year with priority deadlines in December. If you’re interested, please reach out in early fall.
Note: at UC Davis, you can always apply directly to the graduate groups as well although to ensure a position in my lab specifically, I recommend that you reach out to me in advance.
At the beginning of each quarter, we usually will hold an interview process for 1 to 2 junior or senior undergraduate researchers. We are looking for highly motivated and self-driven students. All majors are welcome!
It is possible to get funding through existing UC Davis programs:
Funding and Sponsored Programs
CITRIS Workforce Innovation - CITRIS and the Banatao Institute
If you would like to be considered for the upcoming quarter in BIRD lab, please complete this Google form. Please review theLab Guide and Goals before completing the form.