TLDR: Cornell University’s Automation and Robotics Lab is offering fully funded Ph.D. positions for Fall 2026, focusing on agricultural robotics and artificial intelligence. The program, led by Dr. Lirong Xiang, includes a competitive annual stipend of $47,548, full tuition, health insurance, and conference travel support. Successful candidates will engage in interdisciplinary research to advance smart farming solutions.
Cornell University, a prestigious Ivy League institution, has announced multiple fully funded Ph.D. positions in Agricultural Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the Fall 2026 intake. These opportunities are hosted within the university’s cutting-edge Automation and Robotics Lab and will be conducted under the direction of Dr. Lirong Xiang, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering.
The program is designed to attract highly motivated candidates eager to contribute to transformative applications in agriculture through advanced robotics, computer vision, and artificial intelligence.
Comprehensive Financial Support
Selected Ph.D. candidates will receive a competitive financial package ensuring their academic and personal well-being throughout the program. This includes a minimum annual stipend of $47,548, with potential for increases based on academic performance and research accomplishments. Additionally, the funding covers full tuition, health insurance, and support for conference travel.
Cutting-Edge Research Areas
Students will engage in interdisciplinary projects that span critical areas at the forefront of agricultural technology. Key research focuses include:
Agricultural robotics and automation
Robotic system design and control
Machine learning, deep learning, and reinforcement learning
Computer vision and multimodal perception
Mechanical and electrical design for intelligent systems
The Automation and Robotics Lab, which also includes research led by Dr. Manoj Karkee focusing on AI and robotic technologies for agricultural applications, is dedicated to developing intelligent, smart farming solutions. Its mission is to enhance input precision and efficiency, increase crop yield and quality, and ensure socio-economic and environmental sustainability in farming operations. The lab actively collaborates with federal agencies, industry partners, and farmers to translate cutting-edge research into scalable and economically viable technologies.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants are required to have earned, or expect to earn by Fall 2026, a B.S. or M.S. degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical or Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or closely related fields.
Required qualifications for prospective students include:
Demonstrated interest or experience in robotics, automation, AI, or computer vision.
Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, along with familiarity with ROS (Robot Operating System).
Strong written and oral communication skills in English.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
Prior research experience in relevant domains and experience in mechanical or electrical system design are considered advantageous.
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications, which typically include a curriculum vitae, statement of purpose, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Specific application instructions advise sending these materials directly to the program contact as detailed in the official announcement.
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