We are seeking highly motivated Research Assistants I/II to join Professor Max Shen’s group at the University of Hong Kong. Our research combines artificial intelligence, operations research, and scientific computing to address challenges in industrial automation and advanced semiconductor technologies. Successful candidates will contribute to one or more of the following research areas.
Research Areas
1. AI-Driven Decision-Making for Autonomous Industrial Operations
We explore reinforcement learning, world models, and operations research methods for autonomous operations in semiconductor fabrication plants, container terminals, and warehouses. Research may involve planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and the coordination of automated equipment and transport systems. We are particularly interested in decision systems that can learn operational dynamics, anticipate the consequences of actions, and adapt to changing conditions and uncertainty, with the aim of improving the efficiency and reliability of industrial operations.
2. AI for Science and Semiconductor Simulation
We explore AI methods for semiconductor process simulation and TCAD device simulation, with applications in advanced semiconductor design and manufacturing. Research may involve physics-informed neural networks, neural operators, differentiable simulation, and related approaches to accelerate simulation, infer physical parameters, and support design exploration and process optimization. We are interested in combining machine learning with physical modeling to develop efficient and accurate computational methods for semiconductor technologies.
Responsibilities
Successful candidates will:
- Collaborate with researchers in the group to develop algorithms, computational models, and research prototypes.
- Implement and evaluate research methods through simulation, computational experiments, and data analysis.
- Document research findings and contribute to the preparation of papers for leading journals and conferences.
- Support other research activities related to the projects.
Qualifications
Applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree or above in Computer Science, Automation, Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, Applied Mathematics, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
Applicants should also have:
- Strong programming skills and proficiency in at least one programming language, such as Python or C++.
- A keen interest in AI, machine learning, optimization, or scientific computing, and the motivation to conduct research.
- The ability to work independently, communicate research findings clearly, and collaborate effectively within a team.
Relevant research or project experience in either research area would be an advantage. Examples include reinforcement learning, optimization, industrial automation, numerical simulation, physics-informed machine learning, or semiconductor process and device modeling. Prior experience in academic publishing, research software development, or relevant industrial projects is preferred.
Application
Interested applicants should email their CV to Dr. Anbang Liu at anbang@hku.hk.
Applications close: 11 September 2027 (Hong Kong Time)
