Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

Position Overview DEPARTMENT: Chemistry and Materials Science/ School of Sciences  ACADEMIC DISCIPLINE: Chemistry and Materials Science  POSITION TITLE: Open rank faculty appointment  LOCATION: Suzhou, Jiangsu, China POSITION OPEN DATE: 3th March 2025 ADVERTISEMENT CLOSING DATE: until filled JOB ID: 4082 CONTRACT TYPE: Fixed-Term/3-year contract, renewable. The 3rd contract is open-ended ABOUT THE POSITION We are looking to recruit and hire highly experienced, motivated, productive, and accomplished scholars/researchers at the forefront of Computational Chemistry, Materials Science, or AI/Robotics-related research in Chemistry and Materials Science to help support our academic programme and research growth in this area. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a track record of impactful research contributions in one or more of the following key areas: computational modeling of chemical systems, AI-driven materials discovery/design, robotics for chemical synthesis, machine learning applications in chemistry, molecular dynamics simulations, quantum chemistry, nanomaterials, energy materials, or biomaterials. Candidates with expertise in related fields but not directly linked to AI/Computational Chemistry or Materials Science are also encouraged to apply, provided they have a truly outstanding profile in interdisciplinary research, funding acquisition, and innovative work with industry. Priority will be given to those with a strong international reputation, a proven ability to secure external funding, and demonstrated excellence in academic supervision and research mentorship. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing both teaching and research missions, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and contributing to the dynamic growth of Chemistry and Materials Science at the institution. 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 over 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. XJTLU is entering a new and exciting phase of its development as part of its strategic priorities for the next ten years. Adopting a new higher education model based on the concept of Syntegrative Education (SE), XJTLU is currently opening a new Entrepreneurial Education site in Taicang, part of wider Suzhou, where the Entrepreneur College (Taicang) is located. The Taicang site will be a pioneer of, and educational model for, the future campus in addressing challenges arising from the 4th Industrial Revolution. Other new initiatives include new working partnerships with Xi’an Jiaotong University, the continued development of the four new Academies, and exploration of further potential locations to develop the SE model. 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 the university website: www.xjtlu.edu.cn. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT The Department belongs to the School of Science and focuses on Chemistry and Materials Science. It has recruited faculty from globally distinguished institutions working in these disciplines. Although relatively young, the Department has already established a solid reputation, as indicated by its large number of high quality research publications in impactful journals (Q1),  growing number of grant awards to its staff (e.g., from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and major industry partners) and national and international research collaborations. It has state-of-the-art instrumentation housed in custom-built labs, and provides excellent technical support. Current research areas include: Advanced materials, High-performance batteries and supercapacitors, Nano porous materials, Microfluidic-based biosensors, Nano-electrocatalysts - Energy nanomaterials, Biomaterials and their biomedical applications, High-throughput screening, Carbohydrates Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry, and AI/Robotics for Chemistry among others. The Department is dedicated to providing an international environment for both teaching and research, with around half of its academic staff born out of mainland China. The Department also collaborates closely with the newly established Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC), a university-level research center specialized in the development and application of novel materials. The academic unit was first established in 2010 as the Department of Chemistry and recently was renamed into the Department of Chemistry and Materials Science to better describe its growing work and impact in the two fields. The Department currently delivers one undergraduate BSc programme in ‘Applied Chemistry’ and a BEng programme in ‘Materials Science and Engineering’ expected to start in September of 2025, two Master programmes ‘MRes in Advanced Chemistry’ and ‘MRes in Materials Science and Engineering’ and a ‘PhD in Chemistry.’ In 2017 our BSc in Applied Chemistry programme was accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, the first RSC accreditation of its kind in China. Staff also benefit from the fact that Suzhou is a ‘hot-spot’ for biotechnology/biomedical science and materials science research and entrepreneurship. Cold Spring Harbor Asia (http://www.csh-asia.org/index.html) is located within walking distance and there are over 1000 biotechnology companies in BioBay (http://en.biobay.com.cn/main/index.asp) providing ample industry collaboration and entrepreneurship opportunities. As a state-level economic and technical development zone (ETDZ), Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP) boasted a No.1 ranking among 218 zones of its kind in China for five consecutive years (2016-2020) by the Ministry of Commerce based on the zone’s comprehensive development level. The broader Suzhou area encompasses the spirit of both old and new in China, with the historic old town’s canals, UNESCO World Heritage Site gardens, and the I.M Pei-designed Suzhou Museum attracting millions of tourists annually. SIP offers an excellent quality of life. The nearby Jinji Lake provides attractive views, by day and night, and there are a variety of shopping facilities, international and local restaurants, entertainment hubs and a great nightlife.  Suzhou became the world's largest industrial city in 2021, with the gross industrial output value reaching the milestone of 4 trillion RMB. For more information: https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/study/departments/school-of-science/chemistry-and-materials-science RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES To teach undergraduate and graduate students To maintain active and productive research and obtain research funding  To carry out various administrative duties related to university teaching and research     (e.g., Research Officer, Lab Safety Officer, and Examination Officer etc.) To supervise graduate students and support teaching and research staff To establish an innovative and well-funded research group that is open to interdisciplinary collaboration that yields productive research outcomes.  PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES Effective communication skills; fluent in written and spoken English Problem-solving/creativity  Adaptability and flexibility Professionalism and work ethic Interpersonal abilities to manage a research team Positive attitude and energy Diversity / Sensitivity QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCES Essential Requirements: PhD Degree: A PhD degree in Chemistry, Chemical Sciences, Materials Science, Computational Chemistry, or a related discipline is required. Teaching Experience: Demonstrated teaching experience or strong potential for effective teaching. Research Publications: Proven track record of high-quality, high-impact research publications. Preferred Qualifications: Field of Expertise: Priority will be given to candidates with expertise in Computational Chemistry/Materials Science or AI/Robotics-related research in Chemistry/Materials Science. Current Position: Candidates currently holding the position of Assistant Professor or above will be prioritized. Research Leadership: Active engagement at the forefront of Chemistry and/or Materials Science, with a strong international research profile. Funding Success: A successful history of securing external research funding. Academic Supervision: Demonstrated ability in academic supervision and mentoring of UG and PG students. The ideal candidate will combine excellence in both teaching and research, with a commitment to advancing knowledge in their field through innovative approaches and interdisciplinary collaboration. 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 training is provided. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS SALARY: Competitive salary in the market BENEFITS: Allowance: XJTLU provide various month/annual/one-off allowances such as  Housing allowance Travel allowance Kids’ education allowance Relocation allowance Etc. Commercial insurance: international insurance plans customized for XJTLU staff and family members (for details please refer to the University Policy). Paid holidays:  Statutory Holidays (13 days) Annual Leave (34 days) 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 https://career15.sapsf.cn/sfcareer/jobreqcareer?jobId=4082&company=xjtlu  Applications must be submitted in a single pdf file that includes the following three parts in the order: A cover letter  A current CV, including date of birth, country of citizenship, and highest degree level Contact details for three referees  For enquiries relating to the position, please email acting Head of Department, Dr. Lifeng Ding, Lifeng.Ding@xjtlu.edu.cn and copy HR at Zhi.Yang@xjtlu.edu.cn  Please quote the position and job ID in your enquiry.

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 CHIPS The School of CHIPS 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 Taicang campus.  Industry Partner Overview The School of CHIPS is jointly developed by the University and industry partners, Standard Science Chip Cloud Microelectronics and Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, to deliver the industry-themed programme(s). The first-degree programme that the School has launched for the Academic Year 2021/2022 is BEng Microelectronics Science and Engineering with Contemporary Entrepreneurship.   Standard Science Chip Cloud Microelectronics is a comprehensive technology enterprise specialising in investment in integrated circuit industry chain services. Under the guidance of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology is one of the earliest engineering research institutes in China. More information please see https://www.sscc.tech/ and http://english.sim.cas.cn/. PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES The School of CHIPS 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).  Any other appropriate tasks assigned by the Entrepreneur College or University through the Dean of School or College Senior Management Team. ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCES A doctoral research (normally PhD) degree in electrical and electronics engineering, microelectronics engineering, integrated circuits design, integrated circuits fabrication, microprocessor systems, digital VLSI design, CMOS digital integrated circuits, or be able to demonstrate an equivalent professional practice and engagement. 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) Full Paid Holidays (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. 

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.