Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

Academic Qualification: Professor Report to: Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Appointment period: 3-year appointment, renewable Work Location: Suzhou, China Recruitment type: International ABOUT XI’AN JIAOTONG-LIVERPOOL UNIVERSITY (XJTLU) In 2006, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) was founded by a partnership between the University of Liverpool, UK, and Xi’an Jiaotong University, 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 over 25,000 enrolled students studying in both Suzhou and Liverpool in the UK. There are currently about 2,500 staff, including more than 1,300 academic staff from over 60 countries. XJTLU offers our undergraduates and postgraduates over 120 programmes with a diverse spectrum of courses. With a focus on innovative education 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 the same time, XJTLU is exploring future education by blending the educational theory, best practice and culture from the West and the East. Next year marks the 20th anniversary of XJTLU. As part of its strategic priorities for the coming decade, the university is entering a new and exciting phase of development. XJTLU continues to innovate in education models, and is now transitioning from a collection of distinct approaches toward a unified, integrated Academy model – a syntegrative ecosystem designed to break down silos, enhance agility, and solidify XJTLU’s position at the forefront of global education and research. For detailed information about the university, please visit www.xjtlu.edu.cn ABOUT ACADEMY OF LIFE AND NATURAL SCIENCES (ALNS) XJTLU is embarking on a transformative journey by establishing a new integrated Academy of Life and Natural Sciences (ALNS), which is a cornerstone of the university's strategy to lead in the rapidly evolving fields of life, biopharmaceuticals, materials, and health sciences. This initiative is a fundamental re-imagining of XJTLU’s academic architecture to foster unprecedented collaboration between foundational science, pharmaceutical innovation, and engineering principles. The ALNS will create a powerful ecosystem that leverages the existing strengths of the School of Science in fundamental biological, chemical, materials, and environmental sciences, along with the Academy of Pharmacy’s expertise in drug discovery, pharmaceutics, and translational medicine. This integration is essential for tackling complex global challenges, from personalized medicine to sustainable health solutions, and aligns with national and global research priorities. Vision To be a world-leading hub of interdisciplinary innovation where the convergence of life, health, biochemicals, materials, and pharmaceutical sciences delivers transformative education, groundbreaking research, and sustainable solutions for global health and well-being. Strategic Objectives Integrate Disciplinary Pillars: Create a seamless academic environment that breaks down silos between pharmacy, biology, bioinformatics, chemistry, materials, environmental, and data science. Future-Proof Graduates: Deliver flexible, interdisciplinary programmes that produce graduates capable of leading in emerging fields like bioinformatics, intelligent health, clinical science and sustainable biopharmaceuticals. Amplify Research Impact: Establish Research Centres that concentrate critical mass, foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, and increase competitiveness for major external funding. Forge Strategic Partnerships: Become the partner of choice for industry and government in co-creating solutions and driving innovation. Optimize Resources and Efficiency: Create a streamlined, flat structure that reduces administrative overhead, shares costly resources effectively, and generates significant operational savings. RESPONSIBILITIES We seek to appoint a visionary and entrepreneurial Founding Dean to lead this new academy from the ground up. The Founding Dean will be a member of the senior management team of the University, reporting directly to the University Vice President for Academic Affairs. The appointee will have the rare opportunity to build a collaborative and forward-thinking academic unit, design innovative curricula, recruit researchers, foster ground-breaking research, and forge deep connections with industry and the community. This role is perfect for a dynamic leader who is passionate about defining the future of life and natural sciences education and research. Vision & Strategy: Articulate and implement a compelling, innovative vision for the Academy. Develop strategies that integrate education, research and outreach, aligning with the university's broader mission. Academic Leadership: Design and champion interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programmes that break down traditional silos, are responsive to future workforce needs, and attract top-tier students. Research Advancement: Catalyse a vibrant research environment that encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, secures major external funding, and addresses pressing global challenges in health, environment, and technology. Faculty Development & Recruitment: Lead the recruitment of a diverse and excellent faculty and top researchers. Foster a culture of mentorship, collaboration, and high-impact scholarly and research activity. Resource & Financial Management: Secure and manage financial resources, including fundings from private and public sources. Oversee the development of state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure. External Engagement: Serve as the chief ambassador for the Academy. Build strategic partnerships with research institutes and industry leaders to enhance opportunities for collaboration, funding, and student placement. Administrative Leadership: Build and lead an effective administrative team. Ensure operational excellence, accreditation standards, and a supportive, inclusive environment for all students and staff.   QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE PhD degree in a related field. A distinguished track record of scholarly achievement commensurate with a full professor appointment. Significant and progressive academic leadership experience (e.g., Dean, Associate Dean, Head of Department, etc.) with demonstrated success. A proven ability to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and build academic communities. A strong track record in securing external research funding and a clear vision for growing a research institute/enterprise. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and lead a diverse team. A strong commitment to the success of the academy in all aspects. Entrepreneurial experience in successfully nurturing and spinning out a business will be a plus.   Ideal Candidate Profile: The successful candidate will be: A visionary architect who can imagine and build a new institution. A collaborative bridge-builder who thrives in interdisciplinary settings. An entrepreneurial catalyst with drive and business acumen. An inspiring ambassador who can tell the Academy’s story. A talent magnet who can attract and develop outstanding people.   XJTLU offers globally competitive compensation and benefits, with initial research funding to successful appointee. Please submit applications with CV and a Personal Statement (up to 1,500 words) on XJTLU Career Website: https://career15.sapsf.cn/sfcareer/jobreqcareer?jobId=4314&company=xjtlu. The position will be open until filled. Interviews will be held shortly after this. Enquiries about the role can be made to talent.hr@xjtlu.edu.cn.

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. 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 Clear career development path with annual review. Professional development trainings are provided. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS SALARY: Competitive salary in the market BENEFITS Allowance: XJTLU provide various month/annual/one-off allowances as: Housing allowance, Travel allowance, Relocation allowance etc. Commercial insurance: international insurance plans customized for XJTLU staff and family members. (details refer to the University Policy) Paid holidays: Statutory Holidays (13 days) Annual Leave (34 days per academic year including university close days and annual leave) Family Matters Leave Paid Sick Leave Marriage Leave Paternity Leave Parental Leave Etc. 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.

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 ENTREPRENEUR COLLEGE (TAICANG) In 2019, the XJTLU Entrepreneur College (Taicang) was launched, as a pioneers of, and an educational model for, the future university and campus in developing talents and leaders to meet local, national, and global challenges arising from the 4th Industrial Revolution. Developed in collaboration with the Taicang Municipal Government and industry partners, the XJTLU Entrepreneur College (Taicang) moved to the university’s newly opened award winning Taicang campus, within Greater Suzhou, in September 2022. As a result, there are opportunities at all levels for innovative academics in the fields represented by the following schools and education platforms. For detailed information about the XJTLU Entrepreneur College (Taicang), please visit: https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/study/departments/entrepreneur-college-taicang/ ABOUT THE SCHOOL OF ROBOTICS The School of Robotics is one of the seven industry-themed Schools in the XJTLU Entrepreneur College (Taicang). Each School consists of an Education, Research and Development Institute (ERDI) for teaching and research collaboration, a one-stop School Office providing professional services to support student administration and activities, members of staff, and industry partners, and an affiliated School Joint-Venture Company jointly established by XJTLU and the School’s partner for industry-embedded teaching, learning, practical, and other activities. The governance of the School is through a School Council. The Dean of School oversees the School Management Team as well as contributing to the leadership of the college. The School of Robotics is jointly developed by the University and an industry partner – Siasun, to deliver the industry-themed programme(s). The first degree programme that the School has launched for the Academic Year 2019/2020 is BEng Intelligent Robotics Engineering with Contemporary Entrepreneurship.  Industry Partner Overview Siasun is the international headquarter of Siasun Robot & Automation Co., Ltd. in Shanghai. It is committed to creating a leading-edge international, innovative and platform-based for the industry of robots. The main businesses of Saisun include intelligent robots, intelligent manufacturing, and industry incubating. For more information please see www.siasun-in.com/.  PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES The School of Robotics is adopting a new higher education model based upon the concept of Syntegrative Education (SE). SE is a new model developed by the University to address an increasingly networked and complex future of work in the 4th Industrial Revolution. The model is core to the University’s strategy for its next ten-year development focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship. SE aims to train syntegrative leaders with Management skills, International perspective, Discipline-specific knowledge, and adaptability in Industry (MIDI).  The position will attract individuals embodying these SE values and are passionate in engaging in a future-focused co-learning ecosystem comprising students, academics, practitioners, university, industry, and community. The School seeks academic members who thrive by creating impact through authentic engagement, cross-boundary collaboration, collective learning and discovery, and action-oriented inquiries. These creative educators adopt a systems mindset and use their knowledge, skills, and experiences to co-design and deliver an enriching educational experience for students. They view education as an integrative and life-long transformative process. RESPONSIBILITIES We are looking for future colleagues who can: Understand and have an entrepreneur and innovative mindset, in line with the ethos of the College. Deliver high-quality teaching to undergraduate and graduate students, as evidenced by peers, students and external examiners. Supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students. Provide administrative service to the School, the University and its stakeholders. Maintain a sustained record of successful PhD supervision. Work collaboratively with relevant School(s), College and University entities to identify opportunities for meaningful and genuine partnership and successful impact-creation for research. Conduct high-quality industry-enhanced research and consultancy contracts, evidenced by contribution that output makes to industry, the economy, society, environment or culture, beyond the contribution to academic research. Maintain good, sustained, and successful research grants with impact measured by publications in leading journals and other research outputs. Create, develop and manage successful research partnerships with industry, academic institutions, and other external organisations. Support innovative cross-disciplinary research in line with the Entrepreneur College (Taicang) research themes, and become an ambassador for the School for the promotion of cross-boundary research and teaching activities. Engage actively with new educational models and embrace innovative, interactive, technology-enhanced learning, teaching, and assessment approaches; understand and have an entrepreneur and innovative mindset in line with College ethos. Contribute to the school’s teaching development through mentoring and supporting early career academics (Associate Professor and above). Undertake any other appropriate tasks assigned by the Entrepreneur College or University through the Dean of School or College Senior Management Team. ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATION/EXPERIENCES A doctoral research (normally PhD) degree in electrical and electronics, mechatronics, intelligent controls, robotics engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence, computer vision, mobile robotics, machine learning, data science and analytics, or be able to demonstrate an equivalent professional practice and engagement. Previous experience in coding (C/C++, Python, ROS etc) in robotics-related domains. Self-motivated for innovative teaching. Clear understanding of the philosophy and concept of Syntegrative Education (SE). Demonstrable past teaching/industry experiences or practices aligned with Syntegrative Education (SE). A commitment to Continual Professional Development in all areas of the role as an academic at the university. Ability to work, teach and research in English Strong team-work spirit. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE A good track record of engagement with business and industry. University-level teaching experience. Relevant industry experience. Appropriate research experience, including working with industry, for the corresponding academic position level. Experience in intensive teaching and problem-based learning, and a willingness to be innovative in teaching practices. An institutional builder, able to work with wider disciplines across the college. 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 Clear career development path with annual review. Professional development trainings are provided. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS SALARY: Competitive salary in the market BENEFITS Allowance: XJTLU provide various month/annual/one-off allowances as  Housing allowance Travel allowance Relocation allowance Etc. Commercial insurance: international insurance plans customized for XJTLU staff and family members. (details refer to the University Policy) Paid holidays: Statutory Holidays (13 days) Annual Leave (34 days per academic year including university close days and annual leave) Family Matters Leave Paid Sick Leave Marriage Leave Paternity Leave Parental Leave Etc. Working visa and residence permit in China: XJTLU sponsors working visa and residence permit in China for the staff. HOW TO APPLY Please submit your application on our university website. Applications must be submitted in a single pdf file that includes 3 parts in the order of: A cover letter A current CV, including date of birth, country of citizenship, and highest degree level Contact Details for Three References For specific enquiries relating to the position, please email to HRBP on yu.yan@xjtlu.edu.cn.