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UNI

AI-Powered Models for Transportation and Resilient Infrastructure Systems

University of Nebraska–Lincoln Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
✓ Fully Funded 🎓 Computer Science digital twin machine learning ai cyber-physical systems multimodal data fusion infrastructure resilience transportation network modeling

Explore AI and machine learning applications in transportation and resilient infrastructure systems. Work on digital twins, cross-infrastructure interdependencies, and multimodal data fusion using cutting-edge computational frameworks.

AI-generated overview

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Why This Research Matters

This research addresses critical challenges in making transportation and infrastructure systems more resilient and interconnected. By leveraging AI and machine learning, the work aims to improve system adaptability and operational efficiency, supporting safer and more sustainable infrastructure in the face of growing complexity and interdependencies.

transportation

Project Description

Project Overview

This PhD project focuses on developing AI-powered models and computational frameworks to address complex challenges in next-generation transportation systems and resilient, interconnected infrastructure. The research targets interdisciplinary problems at the nexus of transportation, AI/ML, and system resilience.

What You Will Do

Students will investigate AI and machine learning methods for transportation network modeling, study cross-infrastructure interdependencies, develop digital twins for cyber-physical-social systems, and explore collaborative sensing and multimodal data fusion. The project emphasizes real-world impact through innovative, data-driven approaches.

Expected Outcomes

Outcomes include novel AI/ML algorithms for improving transportation system resilience, enhanced understanding of interconnected infrastructure behavior, and computational platforms enabling digital twin simulations to support decision making across domains.

Why This Matters

This research will contribute to safer, more efficient, and resilient infrastructure systems that underpin society. By integrating AI insights with civil engineering challenges, it aims to transform how transportation and infrastructure adapt to emerging demands and interdependencies.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have a background in engineering, computer science, statistics, applied mathematics, public policy, or related fields. Candidates holding or pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree are encouraged. Strong interest in AI/ML theory and applications, quantitative skills, programming experience (Python, C++, etc.), and motivation for interdisciplinary collaboration are expected.

How to Apply

Send an email to jiachaol@alumni.cmu.edu with subject "Ph.D. Applicant - Your Name – Start Semester" including CV, transcripts, and a brief research statement (max 1 page).

Eligibility

UK/Home
EU
International

Supervisor Profile

DJ
Dr. Jiachao Liu
University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
84 Citations
4 h-index
Google Scholar

Dr. Jiachao Liu is an incoming Assistant Professor at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. He specializes in AI-powered transportation system modeling and infrastructure resilience. Currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Carnegie Mellon University, he holds a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering and an M.S. in Machine Learning from CMU, alongside degrees in Transportation Engineering. His research integrates AI, transportation, and complex systems modeling.

Key Publications

2023 38 citations
Optimal curbside pricing for managing ride-hailing pick-ups and drop-offs
2024 18 citations
Modeling multimodal curbside usage in dynamic networks
2025 17 citations
Real-time system optimal traffic routing under uncertainties—Can physics models boost reinforcement learning?
2024 5 citations
Efficient and robust freeway traffic speed estimation under oblique grid using vehicle trajectory data
2024 2 citations
Enhancing multi-class mesoscopic network modeling with high-resolution satellite imagery

Research Contributions

Developed optimal curbside pricing models to manage ride-hailing pick-ups and drop-offs effectively.
Helps urban planners and policymakers improve transportation efficiency and reduce congestion in urban areas.
Created models for multimodal curbside usage in dynamic transportation networks.
Supports better integration of various transport modes, enhancing the overall traffic management systems.
Applied physics models to boost reinforcement learning for real-time system optimal traffic routing under uncertainties.
Improves real-time traffic routing strategies, potentially reducing travel times and congestion.
Designed methods for freeway traffic speed estimation using vehicle trajectory data under oblique grids.
Provides more accurate traffic monitoring that aids in better freeway management and safety.

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