The Automation and Robotics Lab at Cornell University is seeking multiple highly motivated Ph.D. students to join our team. Prospective doctoral students will conduct research in robotics, computer vision, and artificial intelligence for agricultural applications under the guidance of Dr. Lirong Xiang. The positions include stipends, tuition coverage, health insurance, and travel support for conferences.
The minimum stipend is $47,548 per year, with eligibility for annual increases based on strong academic performance and research achievements. The anticipated start date is Fall 2026.
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About the Supervisor
Dr. Lirong Xiang is an assistant professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering at Cornell University. Her lab is well-funded by federal agencies and industry. She holds a B.S. from Zhejiang University and a Ph.D. from Iowa State University, and was previously an assistant professor at NC State.
She has published over 30 papers in leading journals and conferences and has received prestigious honors, including
- FFAR New Innovator Award (awarded to only 10 scientists nationwide each year)
- Cisco Faculty Research Award
- NC State Goodnight Early Career Award
- NC State Research Excellence Award
Her students have earned top honors such as:
- 1st Place in the ASABE Robotics Competition
- FFAR Fellowships
- NC State Scholarly Achievement Award
- Outstanding Teaching Award
Her long-term vision is to develop intelligent robotic and AI systems that transform the future of agriculture.
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Eligibility Criteria | Fully Funded Ph.D. in Ag Robotics & AI at Cornell University
B.S. /M.S. in Agricultural Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or other closely related disciplines.
Background or strong interest in one or more of the following:
- Robotics and automation, robotic system design and control
- Artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning
- Computer vision and multi-modal perception
- Mechanical design or electrical design.
- Strong programming (e.g., C++, ROS, Python), written, and oral communication skills.
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Funding & Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Annual stipend: Minimum $47,548/year, with potential increases based on academic and research performance
- Health insurance
- Conference travel support
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How to Apply
Interested candidates should email the following to Dr. Lirong Xiang at lxiang@cornell.edu with the subject line:
Your Name_PhD Application
Required documents
- CV
- Transcripts
- Representative work (e.g., publications, projects)
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled. Selected applicants will be invited for virtual interviews. Final admission decisions will be made by the Cornell Graduate School.
Application deadline: December 1, 2025
