PhD in Advancing Reinforcement Learning for Smart Bioprocess Control University College Dublin in Ireland

This fully funded PhD position at University College Dublin (UCD), School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, offers an exciting opportunity to advance reinforcement learning methods for the smart control of biotechnological processes. The project focuses on developing computational frameworks that address the complexity of real-world bioprocesses, emphasizing generalization, knowledge transfer, and computational efficiency. State-of-the-art biotechnological and metabolic systems will be used as case studies, and the project includes opportunities for international collaboration, with potential experimental implementation in the US and Germany.

The ideal candidate will have an MSc in chemical or (bio)process engineering, systems biology, data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, or a related field. Experience with Python and machine learning frameworks is required, while prior exposure to bioprocesses or metabolic engineering is advantageous but not essential. The successful applicant will join a 4-year structured PhD program, benefiting from a monthly stipend and a dedicated research budget to support conference attendance, workshops, research expenses, and equipment.

The research will be supervised by Dr. Sebastián Espinel Ríos, and the start date is expected to be by May or September 2026. The application process requires candidates to submit a single PDF containing their CV, academic transcripts, and a letter of motivation via email. This position is ideal for candidates passionate about the digitalization of bioprocesses and eager to contribute to the intersection of biotechnology, AI, and control systems.

For further details and to apply, visit the project page or contact Dr. Espinel Ríos directly.