Join Intelligent Manufacturing Lab

We are always looking for motivated students and researchers to join our team. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a PhD or contributing as an undergraduate/graduate researcher, we welcome applications from individuals passionate about AI-driven manufacturing and energy systems.

PhD Students

We are looking for motivated PhD students interested in AI-driven manufacturing and energy systems. Successful candidates will work on cutting-edge research projects combining physics-based modeling, machine learning, and optimization techniques.

Requirements:

  • Strong background in engineering
  • Interest in AI and machine learning
  • Modeling experience (COMSOL, ANSYS, Simulink, or similar)
  • Programming experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

What we offer:

  • Degree from Rackham Graduate School at University of Michigan
  • Competitive stipend and full tuition coverage
  • Opportunities to publish in top-tier journals and conferences
  • Collaboration with industry partners
  • Access to state-of-the-art computational and experimental facilities

How to apply: Please send your CV, transcripts to zhengtl@umich.edu. Include “[PhD Application]” in the beginning of the subject line.

Master and Undergraduate Students

We offer research opportunities for undergraduate and master’s students interested in gaining hands-on experience in AI-driven manufacturing and energy systems research.

Opportunities:

  • Potential to get paid research assistant positions
  • Independent study and thesis projects
  • Opportunities to lead or contribute to publications

How to apply: Please send your Resume/CV and a brief statement of interest to zhengtl@umich.edu. Include “[Researcher Application]” in the beginning of the subject line.

Research Areas

Our research spans multiple areas at the intersection of AI and engineering. We welcome students interested in:

  • AI for Manufacturing: Additive manufacturing, battery manufacturing, semiconductor manufacturing
  • AI for Energy Storage: Battery thermal management, battery manufacturing, battery recycling
  • AI for Data Center HVAC: HVAC system optimization, chip cooling
  • AI Methods: Physics-informed machine learning, generative design, uncertainty quantification, surrogate modeling, engineering design optimization

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Contact

For questions about joining the lab or to discuss research opportunities, please contact:

  • Dr. Zheng Liu
  • Assistant Professor
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering
  • University of Michigan-Dearborn
  • 2231 Heinz Prechter Engineering Complex
  • 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, MI 48128
  • Email: zhengtl@umich.edu

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