University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

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.

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. Job Purpose The Research Fellow will lead the development of a Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) biosensor platform for rapid detection of microbial bioburden in biopharmaceutical cleaning validation processes. The role involves aptamer discovery, nanomaterial-based SERS sensor development, and integration with microfluidic systems for real-time monitoring of cleaning validation washout fluids. Opportunities to contribute to patent filings, translational research, and commercialization pathways will be available. Key Responsibilities Technical Responsibilities Design and screen high-affinity ssDNA aptamers targeting environmental microorganisms listed in the US Pharmacopeia. Develop nanoparticle-based SERS substrates (Ag/Au nanoclusters) for enhanced Raman signal detection. Design and fabricate microfluidic sensing interfaces for continuous monitoring of cleaning validation fluids. Perform sensor validation using Raman spectroscopy, microbial cultures, and cleaning validation samples. Develop data analysis pipelines for Raman spectral classification, potentially integrating machine learning methods. Research & Project Responsibilities Plan and execute experimental workflows to achieve project milestones. Lead prototype development and performance optimization of the SERS biosensor system. Communicate research outcomes through technical reports, conference presentations, and scientific publications. Collaborate with industry partners and interdisciplinary research teams where applicable. Operational Responsibilities Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with Work Safety and Health (WSH) regulations. Manage procurement of specialized equipment and research consumables. Mentorship Mentor research engineers, graduate students, and undergraduate researchers. Contribute to training activities within the research group. Others To communicate in any relevant internal or external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met. Any ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisor. Job Requirements Essential PhD in Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Analytical Chemistry, or related fields. Strong publication record in biosensors, nanomaterials, Raman spectroscopy, or microfluidics. Demonstrated experience in nanoparticle-based biosensor development or SERS sensing platforms. Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for microfluidic device design. Experience with Raman spectroscopy instrumentation and spectral data analysis. Preferred Experience in microfluidic chip fabrication (soft lithography, PDMS, or micro-machining). Experience with aptamer selection or molecular recognition elements. Experience applying machine learning to spectral data (Raman, LC–MS, or similar). Experience working on translational or industry-linked research projects.

Schemes of Service: Professional Officers Division: Professional Officers Employment Type: Permanent Job Purpose The Professional Officer leads SIT’s Design Factory in advancing design-led education, research, and enterprise collaboration. This role emphasizes strategic leadership in industrial design, guiding multidisciplinary teams to deliver impactful solutions across product, service, and system innovation. The incumbent will champion human-centred design, foster industry partnerships, and drive the Centre’s vision as a hub for applied innovation and leadership in design. Key Responsibilities Applied R&D and Design Innovation Leadership Human-Centred Research: Direct advanced research in ergonomics, usability, and design thinking, ensuring projects address real-world challenges. Lead integrated applied R&D and design projects for SMEs, MNCs, and public sector partners, overseeing full project lifecycles from research framing, ideation, and user insights through to prototyping, validation, and manufacturing considerations. Apply human-centred design, systems thinking, and futures methodologies to translate research insights into functional prototypes, design frameworks, and scalable innovation outcomes. Spearhead the curation and growth of specialist labs and material exploration environments, supporting experimentation across emerging materials, structural design, and advanced fabrication methods. Bridge creative design with engineering feasibility to develop manufacturable, real-world product and service solutions. Industrial Design Leadership Set Strategic Direction: Lead the vision and standards for industrial design across the Design Factory’s initiatives, ensuring excellence in product aesthetics, usability, and manufacturability. Define and oversee mechanical design standards across projects, ensuring structural integrity, manufacturability, and performance excellence. Champion Human-Centred Design: Embed ergonomics, user research, and co-creation practices into all projects, aligning outcomes with real-world needs and industry expectations. Engineering Integration: Champion the fusion of mechanical engineering principles with design innovation, bridging technical feasibility with creative outcomes. Mentorship & Technical Oversight: Provide critique, guidance, and quality assurance for student and project team outputs, cultivating design rigor and professional practice. Guide students and project teams in CAD modelling, simulation, and mechanical prototyping, ensuring precision and reliability in outputs. Drive Innovation: Lead the integration of sustainable design, circular innovation, and advanced prototyping into project deliverables, ensuring relevance in evolving markets. Innovation in Mechanical Systems: Drive the adoption of advanced materials, sustainable engineering practices, and emerging technologies into mechanical design projects Capability Building: Develop toolkits, frameworks, and learning pathways that strengthen SIT’s industrial design capacity and equip collaborators with transferable design skills. Strategic Platform and Programme Development Co-lead the Design Factory as a design-led platform bridging applied R&D, industry collaboration, education, and enterprise adoption; growing its role within SIT's innovation ecosystem. Identify and develop opportunities for programme growth in human-centred design, circular innovation, applied R&D, and cross-disciplinary learning. Contribute to strategic planning and long-term development of the Design Factory in alignment with SIT's institutional goals. Partnership and Business Development Build Strategic Relationships: Establish and manage partnerships with industry, academia, government, and international design ecosystems. Drive Collaboration: Identify opportunities, develop proposals, and formalize agreements to advance innovation projects. Activate Networks: Lead a multi-stakeholder innovation community spanning students, researchers, and external partners. Capability Building and Education Build SIT’s mechanical design expertise through curated methodologies, workshops, and collaborative frameworks that strengthen applied engineering design skills. Design and deliver applied learning programmes, masterclasses, workshops, and structured learning experiences integrating design thinking, human-centred research, prototyping, and real-world application. Translate Design Factory methodologies, applied R&D projects, and industry case studies into structured content for internal and external programmes, including CET modules and industry workshops. Support academic delivery through preparation of learning resources, demonstrations, and supervision of student work across interdisciplinary projects. Mentor and guide interdisciplinary teams across design, engineering, and research domains within lab, workshop, and applied project environments. Project and Operational Management Plan, implement, and monitor multiple concurrent applied R&D and innovation projects, ensuring delivery on time and within budget. Manage budgets, procurement, and reporting for internal and external initiatives, with a strong track record of on-time and on-budget performance. Oversee daily operations of the Design Factory, including facilities, safety, scheduling, and resource utilisation. Maintain records, documentation, and performance metrics for projects, programmes, and collaborations. Requirements Degree in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Human Factors, or Innovation Management; postgraduate qualifications in design leadership or applied engineering are advantageous. Minimum 5–8 years in industrial design, mechanical design, innovation management, or R&D, with a proven record of delivering industry-relevant outcomes. Project Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects and multi-stakeholder collaborations across academic, research, and industry contexts. Technical Proficiency: Expertise in design research, prototyping, fabrication, CAD modelling, simulation, and applied learning environments. Team Leadership: Proven track record in guiding multidisciplinary teams, mentoring talent, and ensuring design rigor in both industrial and mechanical outputs. Industrial Design Practice: Strong proficiency in product development, ergonomics, usability testing, and industry-standard design tools; portfolio evidencing leadership in industrial design projects is preferred. Mechanical Design Expertise: Experience in mechanical systems, material selection, structural design, and integration of engineering principles into innovative solutions.