Openings

The Laboratory for Information and Control Systems (LICS) at the College of AI, Nankai University (Tianjin, China) welcomes applications from motivated candidates interested in distributed control, optimization, and learning over networks. We recruit postdoctoral fellows, PhD, and Master’s students.

About Nankai University

Nankai University was founded in 1919 by Yan Xiu and Zhang Boling and is one of China’s leading comprehensive universities. During the War of Resistance, Nankai joined with Peking University and Tsinghua University to form the National Southwestern Associated University (Lianda), a symbol of academic excellence and resilience.

Latest CUAA ranking: In the 2026 CUAA (AiShen Alumni Association) Chinese University Ranking (main list), Nankai University is ranked #7 nationwide.

Notable alumni

• Shiing-Shen Chern (陈省身) — mathematician.
• Cao Yu (曹禺) — playwright.
• Zhou Enlai (周恩来) — statesman; studied at Nankai School.

Postdoctoral fellows

We welcome applications for postdoctoral research fellows. Competitive candidates will have (or be near completion of) a PhD degree and strong research potential in distributed control, optimization, or learning over networks.

• CV
• Brief research statement (1–2 pages)
• 1–2 representative papers (PDF)
• Names/emails of 2 references (optional)

PhD students

We are looking for self-motivated students with strong mathematical foundations and a passion for research. Ideal applicants are interested in theory-driven work with clear algorithmic design and validation.

• Typical background: control, automation, electrical engineering, computer science, applied mathematics
• Solid math: linear algebra, optimization, dynamical systems
• Programming: MATLAB / Python (and willingness to learn)

Master’s students

Master’s students will work on well-scoped research projects and develop strong skills in modeling, algorithm design, and implementation (e.g., MATLAB/Python). Excellent Master’s students may continue to a PhD program.

• Strong coursework and the ability to learn quickly are valued
• Prior research experience is helpful but not required

How to apply

Send an email to fchen@nankai.edu.cn with your materials. Use a clear subject line, e.g., [Openings] MSc applicant — Name — University or [Openings] PhD applicant — Name — University.

• CV (PDF)
• Transcript (unofficial is OK at first)
• Brief statement of interests (0.5–1 page)
• Optional: representative paper/code/project link

Note: Please include your intended degree level (postdoc/PhD/MSc) and your expected start date.