Architecture x Intelligent System (AxIS) Lab, Texas A&M University - Call for PhD Students

Alex Schofield

Call for PhD Students
Architecture x Intelligent System (AxIS) Lab, Texas A&M University

Architecture x Intelligent System (AxIS) Lab at Texas A&M University’s School of Architecture, directed by Dr. Xinwei Zhuang, advances research at the intersection of architecture, computation and energy system. AxIS is seeking 1-2 motivated Ph.D. students to advance research on resilient built environments through an interdisciplinary lens that integrates architectural and urban design with distributed energy systems. This fully funded position (covers 4 years of tuition, stipend, and benefits) will focus on data-driven design methods (including machine learning algorithms and optimization models), urban building energy modeling, and energy-sharing networks to support neighborhood resilience. 

Website: https://xinwei-zhuang.github.io/

|Candidate profile|

• Master’s degree in Architecture, Computer Science, Civil Engineering, or a related field (exception may be made for bachelor’s degree holders with demonstrated research experience)
• Experience or strong interest in computational design, AI/ML, optimization, energy modeling, or urban systems
• Proficiency in programming (Python required)
• Strong technical writing and communication skills

|Preferred Qualifications|

• Experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch; large language models, geometry- or graph-based ML)
• Familiarity with building energy simulation tools (e.g., EnergyPlus, OpenStudio, DesignBuilder)
• Proficiency in 3D modeling and computational design (Rhino, Grasshopper)
• Knowledge of GIS, graph-based modeling, and complex systems

|Research Themes|

Successful applicants will pursue research within one or more of the following areas:

• Generative Design with Artificial Intelligence
• Urban Building Energy Modeling
• Energy Resilience

|Application Process|

Step 1: Interested candidates will submit an application of interest through the following Google Form:Https://forms.gle/N3EgSVVLJN2i2EseA You will be asked to upload:

• CV
• Research statement (maximum 2 pages, including research interest and potential fit)
• (Optional) Portfolio and/or writing samples

Step 2: 

After initial review, applicants should submit their formal application to Texas A&M University by the final deadline of December 1, 2025.Please notice that there is no specific link for this position and the applicants are required to apply to the PhD program in Architecture at Texas A&M University.https://www.arch.tamu.edu/academics/graduate-programs/ph-d-architecture/

For further inquiries, please contact Dr. Xinwei Zhuang at xinwei.zhuang@tamu.edu.