New Mexico State University’s Niu Lab is recruiting multiple fully funded PhD students for research at the intersection of artificial intelligence and agriculture, with an anticipated start in Spring or Fall 2027. The positions are based in the Department of Computer Science and are supervised by Dr. Haoyu Niu.
Key facts
- The roles are hosted by the Niu Lab at New Mexico State University and supervised by Dr. Haoyu Niu.
- The research areas include artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, robotics, autonomous systems and digital twins for agricultural systems.
- The funding package includes a stipend, tuition coverage, health insurance and conference travel support.
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.
- Applicants must email materials to hniu@nmsu.edu using the subject line “Your Name_PhD Application”.
What do these PhD positions mean for prospective students?
They offer a funded doctoral route for applicants who want to combine computer science or engineering with agricultural research. The announcement says suitable backgrounds include computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, agricultural engineering or a closely related field, with either a B.S. or M.S. degree.
Prospective students also need proficiency in C++ or Python and must be willing to conduct field experiments. Experience with ROS or ROS 2 is described as desirable, and shortlisted candidates will move on to a virtual interview after the initial review.
- Prepare an updated CV, academic transcripts and samples of relevant work such as publications, project reports or a portfolio.
- Send the application directly by email to Dr. Haoyu Niu at hniu@nmsu.edu.
- Use the required subject line: “Your Name_PhD Application”.
- Apply early, since there is no fixed deadline and applications are reviewed until all positions are filled.
What research will the selected PhD students do?
The students will work across artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, computer vision, multimodal sensing, robotics, autonomous systems and digital twins or simulation for agricultural systems. The announcement also highlights work involving unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned ground vehicles and autonomous navigation.
According to the notice, the research is intended to connect technical development with practical agricultural challenges. Students will work with NMSU units including the Institute for Applied Practice in AI and Machine Learning, the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences, and the NMSU Agricultural Experiment Station.
Who should consider applying?
The opportunity is aimed at graduates who want advanced research experience in AI-enabled agriculture. The announcement particularly points to applicants interested in AI, machine learning, robotics, computer vision, autonomous systems, precision agriculture and intelligent agricultural systems.
Dr. Haoyu Niu’s research focus includes AI, computer vision, autonomous robotics and precision agriculture, with an emphasis on AI-enabled robotic systems for crop monitoring. That makes the positions relevant for applicants who want to build a research profile in agricultural robotics and related technologies.
How do applicants apply?
Applicants are asked to email their materials directly to Dr. Haoyu Niu at hniu@nmsu.edu. The required materials are an updated CV, academic transcripts and samples of relevant work, including publications, project reports or a portfolio.
The application email should use the subject line “Your Name_PhD Application”. Applications are being considered on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to a virtual interview.
