Postdoctoral Researcher, Industrial Intelligent Agent Research Center

ABOUT XJTLU

In 2006 Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) was created by the University of Liverpool and Xi’an Jiaotong University – a top ten university in China. Offering a unique international education experience, XJTLU brings together excellent research practice and expertise from both institutions and gives students the skills and knowledge they need to secure careers in a global marketplace. XJTLU now has around 25,000 enrolled students in both Suzhou and Liverpool in the UK, with plans to grow to about 28,000 students by 2025. There are currently about 2,000 staff, among which about 1,000 academic staff, with an almost even split between citizens of the People’s Republic of China and international passport holders. XJTLU offers our undergraduates and postgraduates over 100 programmes with a diverse spectrum of courses.

ABOUT XJTLU

In 2006 Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) was created by the University of Liverpool and Xi’an Jiaotong University – a top ten university in China. Offering a unique international education experience, XJTLU brings together excellent research practice and expertise from both institutions and gives students the skills and knowledge they need to secure careers in a global marketplace. XJTLU now has around 25,000 enrolled students in both Suzhou and Liverpool in the UK, with plans to grow to about 28,000 students by 2025. There are currently about 2,000 staff, among which about 1,000 academic staff, with an almost even split between citizens of the People’s Republic of China and international passport holders. XJTLU offers our undergraduates and postgraduates over 100 programmes with a diverse spectrum of courses.

With a focus on innovative learning and teaching, and research, XJTLU draws on the strengths of its parent universities, and plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to China for UK and other institutional partners. At same time, XJTLU is exploring future education by blending the educational theory, best practice and culture from west and east.

For detailed information about the university, please visit www.xjtlu.edu.cn.

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. The more details can be kindly found as below:

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.

These personal attributes, combined with the required qualifications and expertise, contribute to the overall effectiveness and success of postdoctoral researchers in pursuit of advancing knowledge and making significant contributions to their respective fields.

CITIZENSHIP AND VISA REGULATIONS

Employment at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University is regulated by Chinese Labour Laws, and must comply with the regulations of the provincial government. These regulations stipulate who is eligible for legal employment with regard to obtaining work permits and visas. Please be advised candidates over 65 may be not eligible for a work visa in the P.R. China.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

1. Clear career development path with annual review.
2. Professional development trainings are provided.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

SALARY: Competitive salary in the market

BENEFITS: Details refer to the University Policy

Working visa and residence permit in China: XJTLU sponsors working visa and residence permit in China for the staff.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested applicants are required to submit the application with the following files. Please combine the following application materials into a single PDF file and title it "Digital Twin and Control Systems Postdoc Application – Your Name",

• Detailed CV (including list of publications)
• Research Statement (summarizing past research achievements and future research interests)
• Three representative publications
• Three reference letters (or contact information for referees)

For specific enquiries relating to the position, please email to HRBP on yu.yan@xjtlu.edu.cn.