Postdoctoral Researcher

ABOUT THE INDUSTRIAL INTELLIGENT AGENT RESEARCH CENTER

The Industrial Intelligent Agent Research Center at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, aligned with national smart manufacturing strategies, is committed to building a world-leading technological innovation platform for industrial intelligence. The center focuses on a tripartite technical system of "Equipment Automation – Operation & Maintenance Intelligence – System Autonomy," aiming to drive profound transformation in industrial manufacturing by breaking through key technologies in smart equipment, industrial software, and system solutions. The center collaborates closely with industrial giants like Hengtong, Haier, and Bond Tech to create a complete value chain from theoretical innovation to industrial application.

RESEARCH AREAS

Currently, we are seeking candidates from different research areas.

1. Industrial AI Algorithm and Autonomous Decision-Making Systems

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Research and develop autonomous decision-making algorithms for process industries (e.g., chemical, pharmaceutical, materials, energy) or discrete manufacturing (e.g., electronics assembly, automotive, home appliances).
• Explore the integration of large language models and reinforcement learning for real-time optimization, fault self-recovery, and production scheduling in industrial processes.
• Publish research results in top-tier international conferences and journals, and participate in applying for domestic and international patents.
• Assist in supervising PhD and Master's students, and participate in the center's collaborative projects with industry partners to promote the industrialization of technology.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCES

• A Ph.D. (obtained or soon to be obtained) in Computer Science, Automation, Artificial Intelligence, Operations Research, or a related field.
• Solid research background and practical experience in one or more of the following areas: Reinforcement Learning / Deep Reinforcement Learning; Fine-tuning and Application of Large Language Models; Time-Series Data Prediction and Modeling; Intelligent Decision-Making and Optimization Algorithms
• Strong programming skills (proficient in Python, PyTorch/TensorFlow, etc.).
• Strong intellectual curiosity, ability to solve problems independently, and excellent teamwork spirit.
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills in both Chinese and English.

2. Industrial Digital Twin and Intelligent Control Systems

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop industrial process digital twin models based on the fusion of mechanistic and data-driven approaches.
• Develop predictive maintenance and fault diagnosis algorithms for critical equipment (e.g., compressors, reaction kettles).
• Research advanced process control strategies and deploy them on the center's distributed control systems and edge computing devices.
• Work closely with industry partners to validate and optimize the developed technologies in real industrial environments.
• Publish high-quality academic papers and participate in writing research grant proposals.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCES

• A Ph.D. (obtained or soon to be obtained) in Control Science and Engineering, Process Control, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• In-depth research experience and solid expertise in one or more of the following areas: Advanced Process Control and Optimization; Digital Twin and Modeling & Simulation; Predictive Maintenance and Fault Diagnosis; Industrial IoT and Edge Computing
• Good programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C++) and experience with system simulation.
• Experience with industrial field projects or familiarity with DCS/MES systems is preferred.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Initiative: applicants should demonstrate a proactive and self-driven approach to work and should take the initiative to identify research opportunities, propose new ideas, and seek solutions to research challenges;
• Collaboration: The ability to communicate effectively, listen actively, and contribute constructively to group discussions is essential for successful collaboration;
• Resilience: applicants should demonstrate resilience and perseverance, maintaining a positive attitude and adaptability in the face of setbacks or unexpected outcomes;
• Ethical conduct: applicants should adhere to ethical guidelines, promote responsible research practices, and ensure the safety and well-being of themselves and others in the research environment.