University of Guelph, AI Lab, School of Computer Science
Program ID:
University of Guelph-AI Lab, School of Computer Science-RA_AI4PLANTS [#31925]
Program Title:
Research Associate: AI for high-value plant production in Controlled Environment
Program Type:
Student programs
Program Location:
Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
Subject Area:
Appl Deadline:
2026/07/01 23:59:59 (posted 2026/04/07, listed until 2026/07/01)
Program Description:
Program Description
Description of the Area/Topic of Research: The AI Lab in the School of Computer Science at the University of Guelph, in collaboration with Dr. Youbin Zheng in the School of Environmental Sciences, invites applications for a Research Associate to lead cutting-edge research at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and high-value plant production in greenhouse agriculture. This position is part of a multi-disciplinary project to develop and deploy the Autonomous, AI-driven soilless plant production system for sustainable high-value plant production in controlled environments. The system will be trained on data collected at the University of Guelph’s Bovey Research Greenhouse and deployed in collaboration with commercial greenhouse partners. Key Responsibilities • Lead AI/ML algorithm development for predicting plant water and nutrient uptake under varying environmental and growth conditions. • Analyze multi-source data, including aerial and rootzone environments, fertigation metrics, and crop performance indicators. • Collaborate with horticulture and engineering teams to refine setpoints for environmental control and optimize plant performance. • Contribute to publications, funding proposals, and research dissemination at conferences. • Collaborate with undergraduate and graduate students and support lab activities. Lab and Environment The AI Lab, established in 2024 within the School of Computer Science, focuses on interdisciplinary AI research with a strong emphasis on AI for Health. The School of Computer Science is recognized for excellence in AI, data science, and interdisciplinary research. To learn more, visit: https://ailab.uoguelph.ca Learn more about Dr. Zheng’s lab: https://ses.uoguelph.ca/people/youbin-zheng Required Qualifications • Minimal: M.Sc./M.Eng. in Computer Science/Software Engineering, or a closely related field. • Strong background in AI/ML, with experience in Python, PyTorch, and related tools. • Experience with time-series prediction, control systems (e.g., PLC), ML model deployment, and time series sensor data analysis are assets. • Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary team. Duration of Appointment: 1-year initial appointment, renewable for more years based on performance and funding Anticipated Hours/Days of Work (at time of posting): 35 hours/week (full-time) Salary Range (Minimum): Salary will be based on experience and qualifications Required Qualifications • Minimal: M.Sc./M.Eng. in Computer Science/Software Engineering, or a closely related field. • Strong background in AI/ML, with experience in Python, PyTorch, and related tools. • Experience with time-series prediction, control systems (e.g., PLC), ML model deployment, and time series sensor data analysis are assets. • Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary team. How to Apply: Required Documents/Materials: • A cover letter summarizing your qualifications and interest in the position • A curriculum vitae (CV) including contact information for two references • A 2-page research statement describing your relevant experience and interest in AI/ML applications in agriculture or environmental systems Please combine all documents into a single PDF and email to: Dr. Ed Sykes sykes@uoguelph.ca You may be asked to provide copies of your educational credentials at the time of the interview. Upon hire, we require official confirmation of educational credentials and Canadian equivalency assessments, if applicable. We acknowledge with gratitude that the University of Guelph is situated on ancestral lands of the Attawandaron people and treaty lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit and the Dish with One Spoon Wampum. We commit to further my understanding of the past and the present so that I may live responsibly and respectfully as a settler.Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement
And anything else requested in the program description.
Further Info: