Postdoctoral Researcher – AI & Smart Aquaculture Systems

Job DescriptionThe Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher for a 2-year A-TRIP funded project titled: “Smart Aqua-PV: A Solar-Powered Digital Twin and AI-Driven Smart Aquaculture Pilot for Sustainable Protein Production in Arid Environments.” The project integrates solar-powered recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), IoT monitoring, digital twin modeling, artificial intelligence optimization, and ultra-low-power underwater sensing in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The Postdoctoral Researcher will lead the development of AI-driven optimization models and the digital twin framework for the Smart Aqua-PV pilot system. Responsibilities include: Development of digital twin models integrating solar energy, RAS dynamics, and sensor data Design and implementation of AI algorithms for feeding optimization, water quality prediction, and anomaly detection Integration of MIT piezo-acoustic sensing data into the AI framework Simulation of operational scenarios (heat stress, power interruption, system disturbances) Data analytics and predictive modeling using machine learning tools Supervision of graduate students (PhD and MSc) Preparation of high-impact journal publications Contribution to techno-economic analysis and scalability modeling Participation in stakeholder workshops and project dissemination The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering a functional AI-enabled aquaculture platform over the 24-month project period.Minimum Qualification PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Energy Systems, AI, or a closely related field Strong background in machine learning and data-driven modeling Experience with Python, MATLAB, or similar computational tools Experience in system modeling and simulation Proven publication record in peer-reviewed journals Ability to manage research tasks independently Strong scientific writing and communication skills.Preferred Qualification Experience in digital twin modeling Experience in IoT data systems or sensor integration Background in renewable energy systems or solar PV Experience in aquaculture systems or environmental monitoring (advantageous but not mandatory) Knowledge of optimization algorithms and agent-based models Experience in real-time control systems Experience working on interdisciplinary or international projects Willingness to collaborate with MIT research teamSpecial Instructions to Applicant A detailed CVEvidence of prior experience in machine learning,system modeling,or energy systemsPDF copies of 2 representative journal publicClose Date Kindly apply before the closing date.01/08/2026ApplyDepartmentDivisionGradePosting NumberPosition Number