The Physical AI in Smart Manufacturing Lab (Website) at Tennessee Tech University is actively seeking motivated graduate students to join the research team starting in Spring 2026 or Fall 2026. Early inquiries are welcome for prospective enrollment in Spring 2027 or later.

Led by Dr. Duckbong Kim (dbkim@uga.edu), the lab focuses on cutting-edge research at the intersection of:

• Smart manufacturing and industrial automation
• Robotics and humanoid robots
• Additive manufacturing (AM)
• Machine vision and optical engineering
• Data analytics and decision support
• Microstructure analysis and materials science

Financial Support:

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly stipend: $2,300 – $3,000 (for PhD students)
• Conference travel support

Preferred Background and Skills:

• Strong foundation in mechatronics, robotics, AM, welding, or machine vision
• Experience in programming (e.g., C++, Python)
• Familiarity with optical systems, microstructure analysis, or industrial automation
• Undergraduate or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related field

To explore the lab's ongoing research, visit Dr. Kim’s Google Scholar profile.

If you are interested in joining this dynamic and forward-looking research group, please send your CV and a brief expression of interest to:

Dr. Duckbong Kim
Email: dbkim@uga.edu