Professor Hai YANG is leading a research project titled “Development Strategies for an Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Network in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area,” funded by the Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme of The Government of the HKSAR. The project aims to design, analyse and evaluate the AAM system through three interrelated tasks.

Project Tasks:

1. Market Analysis

• Examine demand features, market structure and regulatory frameworks for the AAM market;
• Quantify customer characteristics for AAM services and develop utility models for government and operators;
• Assess the implications of market structure and regulations, comparing policies across countries and cities; and
• Design and conduct extensive surveys targeting 1,000 respondents in Hong Kong and 2,000 in Mainland Chinese cities.

2. Infrastructure Planning

• Address strategic planning for low-altitude infrastructure, focusing on optimal vertiport locations and air routes; and
• Maximize throughput and efficiency while minimizing noise and environmental disruption.

3. Simulation Framework Development

• Create a three-dimensional (3D) simulation framework to optimize infrastructure locations and low-altitude route planning, and
• Integrate machine learning, optimization algorithms, and simulation techniques to enhance operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the project team to design, implement and evaluate research projects;
• Identify, acquire and analyse relevant datasets, conduct surveys and statistical analyses.
• Develop models for low-altitude infrastructure planning, including vertiport locations and air routing;
• Assist in creating a virtual testbed using digital twin technology;
• Contribute to report writing, project management and administrative tasks related to research;
• Publish findings in top-tier conferences and journals and present results; and
• Perform other relevant duties as needed.

Qualifications:

• a PhD degree in a relevant field (e.g. Computer Science, Transportation Engineering, Urban Planning, etc.);
• Strong publication record in top-tier conferences and journals;
• Experience in behavioural/economic models, urban mobility and optimization;
• Familiarity with digital twin model development; industry R&D experience is a plus;
• Proficiency in Python and SQL; knowledge of C++ and Java is advantageous;
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a self-motivated and organized approach; and
• Passion for enhancing the operational efficiency of the emerging Low Altitude Economy through technology and data analysis is encouraged.

(Duration: 1 - 3 years)

Starting salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Fringe benefits including annual leave, medical and dental benefits will be provided. A gratuity will be payable upon successful completion of contract with a duration of 2 years of above.

Application Procedure
To apply, please submit an application with a curriculum vitae to zzhengak@connect.ust.hk. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

(Information provided by applicants will be used for recruitment and other employment-related purposes. Applicants should read the Personal Information Collection Statement before submission of application.)

HKUST is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to our core values of
inclusiveness, diversity, and respect.