Job Advertisement: Postdoctoral and Doctoral Students Recruitment at the Intelligent Meat Processing Lab, Huazhong Agricultural University

发布时间：2025-10-09

Unit: College of Food Science and Technology, College of Informatics

Project: Artificial Intelligence in Meat Processing

The Intelligent Meat Processing Lab at Huazhong Agricultural University is seeking two postdoctoral researchers and two doctoral students who are passionate about advancing the science and technology of meat processing. Our group explores how computational methods, data analytics, and modern engineering can transform the way meat is produced, processed, and evaluated.

We focus on developing intelligent meat processing technologies that improve product quality, production efficiency, and sustainability. Our work bridges disciplines such as food science, bioinformatics, data analysis, and process engineering, providing opportunities for impactful research with both scientific and industrial relevance, moving from molecular design until process validation and modelling.

We work on practical challenges in meat science with access to advanced facilities and computing resources, having a diverse international team and leading experts in food and biological sciences. Our group aims to develop your research profile through publications, conferences, and interdisciplinary projects, also allying your mind to competitive funding and opportunities for professional growth.

Collaborative Supervisors

Prof. Célio Dias Santos-Júnior, Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI), is a highly accomplished overseas talent recruited by Huazhong Agricultural University and serves as a professor at the College of Food Science and Technology. He has an extensive international academic and professional background, holding positions such as Ph.D., postdoctoral, and researcher in countries including Brazil, Portugal, Spain, and China. His research focuses on artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, particularly in the omics field and molecular screening of natural antimicrobial compounds. Over the past few years, he has published 31 academic papers, with several as the first author in top journals like Cell and Microbiome. His research has been widely covered by renowned international media, such as Nature's Research Highlights, The Guardian, and Agencia EFE. He has participated in 23 international academic conferences, including 13 invited talks.

Prof. Haizhou Wu, Principal Investigator (PI), is a recipient of the Chinese government's National High-Level Talent Program. He serves as a professor at the College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University. He is also the Director of the Hubei Technology Innovation Center for Meat Processing and serves as an Editor for the international journal Food Chemistry (IF 8.5). His main research focus is on the sustainable processing and utilization of meat products, with a particular emphasis on the application of artificial intelligence. In the past five years, he has received the "Young Scientist Award" from the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST), the "Young Lipid Scientist Award" from the European Federation for Lipid Science and Technology (EFL), and the "Young Researcher Travel Award" from the American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS).

 Position Requirements

1.Postdoctoral Researcher

• Ph.D. in bioinformatics, computer science, artificial intelligence, data science, food science, or a closely related field.

• Proven research experience in machine learning, deep learning, data integration, or computational biology.

• Strong analytical and programming skills (e.g., Python, R, TensorFlow, PyTorch).

• Ability to design and execute independent research, as well as contribute effectively to collaborative projects.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

• Prior experience in food technology, meat science, or omics data analysis (e.g., genomics, proteomics, metabolomics) is highly desirable.

Responsibilities for Postdoctoral Researcher:

• Conduct cutting-edge research in the field of artificial intelligence and meat science, focusing on innovative technologies and applications.

• Publish in high-impact journals and present at international conferences to disseminate research findings.

• Collaborate with faculty, industry partners, and international researchers to advance AI and meat science research, fostering interdisciplinary solutions.

• Contribute to the supervision, mentorship, and training of graduate students (Master's and PhD).

• Assist in the preparation and submission of research proposals and funding applications for external grants and industry collaborations.

2.Doctoral Students

Master’s degree in bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, computer science, food science, or a related discipline.

Strong interest in applying AI and computational biology to problems in meat processing and food innovation.

Solid foundation in data analysis, statistics, or programming.

Excellent command of English, with the ability to read, write, and communicate scientific research clearly.

Previous research or publication experience in a related area is an advantage.

Responsibilities for Doctoral Students:

• Conduct research on the application of AI and bioinformatics tools to biological and food science data.

• Work closely with supervisors to develop innovative computational methods and analytical pipelines.

• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to interdisciplinary research projects.

 Compensation and Benefits:

• Postdoctoral Researchers: Salary of 220,000-300,000 RMB per year (pre-tax), with medical insurance and individual income tax included. Exact salary negotiable based on experience and research background.

• Doctoral Students: Supported by the Chinese Government Scholarship, covering tuition and living allowances.

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage for postdoctoral researchers and doctoral students.

• Research Funding: Postdoctoral researchers will receive research funding, project budget, and laboratory equipment to ensure the successful conduct of research.

• International Students: Visa, accommodation, and language support will be provided for international students.

• The research team will offer extensive academic exchange and collaboration opportunities, as well as participation in domestic and international conferences to promote career development.

Work Location: Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China

Application Instructions

Please send your:

- resume,

- research interests,

- relevant supporting materials

To the following email addresses: Célio Dias Santos-Júnior: celio@mail.hzau.edu.cn and CC to Mengyue: zhoumy@webmail.hzau.edu.cn 

Applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled. The expected start date for the postdoctoral position is between December 2025 and May 2026, while the doctoral program is expected to begin by the begin of March 2026. Applicants for the doctoral position should submit their materials as soon as possible to apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship.

 Project Highlights

• Join a leading research team in China and contribute to cutting-edge AI technologies in meat processing.

• Access to rich research resources, academic support, and state-of-the-art facilities.

• A platform for extensive academic and career development opportunities for postdoctoral researchers and doctoral students.

About HZAU University

HZAU University is located in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei Province, which is known for its rich cultural heritage, excellent food, and convenient transportation. The Department of Food Science at HZAU University is committed to academic excellence, research innovation, and student success. The food science and technology program at Huazhong Agricultural University is dedicated to studying the science and technology behind food production, processing, and preservation. Students in the program gain a deep understanding of the chemistry, microbiology, and engineering principles that underpin the food industry, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge to real-world problems.

According to the US News Best Global Universities Rankings 2022, Huazhong Agricultural University's food science and technology program is ranked #13 in the world. This is a testament to the program's academic rigor and the quality of its faculty, who are leaders in their respective fields. The program's research strengths include food safety and quality, food processing and preservation, food biotechnology, and functional foods. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in the food industry, government agencies, and research institutions.

Overall, Huazhong Agricultural University's food science and technology program is a world-class program that provides students with a comprehensive education in food science and technology, as well as the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the food industry.