The Artificial Intelligence for Design (AI4D) Lab at Southern Methodist University, led by Assistant Professor Hamid R. Karbasian, is recruiting a fully funded PhD student for Spring or Fall 2026. The lab is part of the Lyle School of Engineering and focuses on cutting-edge research in scientific machine learning (SML), computational physics, and fluid dynamics. Research topics include architecture design for deep learning, learning from data, optimization methods, and solving complex problems in fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and fluid-structure interaction (FSI). Applications span renewable energy, transportation, biomedical devices, and air mobility. The lab develops novel algorithms, mathematical models, and software tools, including in-house CFD solvers and the OPTHiNOS package for sensitivity analysis, uncertainty quantification, and PDE-constrained optimization. The environment is described as friendly and supportive, with a mission to foster growth in science, engineering, and personal development. Applicants should have a master's degree in engineering, physics, or applied mathematics, hands-on experience in AI/ML, ROM, and computational methods, programming skills in Python, Julia, or C++, and strong knowledge of fluid dynamics and turbulence. Admission to the Lyle School of Engineering is required. The position offers full funding, including tuition waiver, health insurance, and stipend. To apply, candidates should email Dr. Karbasian ([email protected]) with the subject 'PhD Application - SML', attaching their CV, unofficial transcripts, and a brief cover letter outlining their objectives. More information about the lab and research can be found at AI4D Lab webpage . Southern Methodist University is a top-ranked institution in Dallas, Texas, with strong computational and AI/ML research programs and excellent facilities for engineering students.

The Artificial Intelligence for Design (AI4D) Lab at Southern Methodist University (SMU) is offering a fully funded PhD position starting in Spring or Fall 2026. The research focus is on scientific machine learning, computational physics, and large-scale computing, with applications in design and optimization of complex systems, particularly in fluid dynamics. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research group in the Lyle School of Engineering, working on cutting-edge topics such as AI/ML, reduced order modeling (ROM), and computational methods for engineering design. Applicants should have a strong background in engineering, physics, or applied mathematics, with hands-on experience in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computational methods. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Julia, or C++ is required, along with a solid understanding of fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and turbulence. The position is fully funded, covering tuition, health insurance, and a stipend, making it an excellent opportunity for motivated students interested in advanced computational research. The AI4D Lab is part of SMU's Department of Mechanical Engineering, located in Dallas, Texas. SMU is recognized for its high-performance computing centers and strong research programs in computational and AI/ML fields. The university is ranked among the top institutions in Texas and the US, providing a vibrant academic environment and excellent career prospects for graduates. To apply, candidates should contact Dr. Hamid R. Karbasian by email ([email protected]) with the subject 'PhD Application - SML', including their most updated CV, unofficial transcripts, and a short cover letter outlining their objectives. Applicants must also meet the general admission requirements of the Lyle School of Engineering. Key research areas: scientific machine learning, computational physics, fluid dynamics, large-scale computing, optimization, AI4D Lab, mechanical engineering.