PhD Openings in Foundation Models, Robotics, and Physics-Aware AI at Texas Tech University Texas Tech University in United States

Liangkai Liu is recruiting 2–3 PhD students to join his new group at Texas Tech University starting in Fall 2026 and Spring 2027. The group works at the intersection of foundation models, robotics, computer science, cyber-physical systems, and physics-aware intelligence, with a focus on building AI-enabled autonomous systems that are safe, efficient, and predictable in the real world.

Research topics include autonomous driving, robotics, real-time and edge AI, multimodal perception, and vision-language action systems. The longer opening page also highlights work on perception, reasoning, and decision-making for AI-enabled autonomy, as well as computing systems for robotics and physics-aware, safety-conscious autonomy for mission-critical applications.

This is a fully funded PhD opportunity with a competitive stipend and tuition waiver. The group also mentions support for equipment and computing, hands-on work with real autonomous systems, and access to an NSF-supported research program.

Preferred backgrounds include CS/EE, robotics, machine learning, computer vision, and embedded systems. Programming experience in Python, ROS, and C++ is specifically mentioned. Applicants are encouraged to read the research statement before reaching out.

To apply, candidates can submit the Google Form or email a CV, transcripts, and research statement to the contact email provided. The post indicates openings for Fall 2026 and Spring 2027.