About This Research Opportunity
Dr. Yunfei Zhao’s group at the University of Maryland is seeking highly motivated PhD students and Postdoctoral researchers to work on cutting-edge cyber-physical security for nuclear power plants (NPPs).
The research integrates nuclear reactor modeling and simulation with advanced techniques from machine learning (especially reinforcement learning), cyber-physical security, probabilistic risk assessment (PRA), and game theory to develop resilient defense strategies against sophisticated cyber threats targeting critical energy infrastructure.
This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to national energy security by addressing one of the most pressing challenges at the intersection of nuclear engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
What You Will Work On
- Nuclear reactor modeling, simulation, and digital twins for security analysis
- Reinforcement learning and AI-driven approaches for cyber-physical defense
- Cyber-physical security modeling and attack-resilient control systems
- Probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) with cyber considerations
- Game-theoretic modeling of attacker-defender interactions in NPPs
Who Should Apply
- Strong academic background in engineering, computer science, or a closely related field
- Strong interest in nuclear power systems, cybersecurity, or AI applications in critical infrastructure
- Excellent analytical, modeling, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
Ideal Candidate Skills
- Experience in nuclear reactor modeling and simulation
- Machine learning, especially reinforcement learning
- Cyber-physical systems security
- Probabilistic risk assessment (PRA)
- Game theory and optimization
How to Apply - PhD Position
Interested candidates should apply to the Reliability Engineering PhD program at the University of Maryland and list Dr. Yunfei Zhao as a preferred advisor.
Important Note: Applications are currently open only to U.S. citizens or international students already in the United States.
How to Apply - Postdoc Position
Email Dr. Yunfei Zhao at yzhao111@umd.edu with the subject line:
Please include the following documents:
- CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- 1-2 representative publications
- Research statement
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled.
Zhao Group at University of Maryland
Dr. Yunfei Zhao’s research group focuses on risk, reliability, and security of complex engineered systems, with particular emphasis on nuclear power plants and cyber-physical systems. The group is part of the Center for Risk and Reliability and collaborates across Mechanical Engineering, Reliability Engineering, and related departments at UMD.
The University of Maryland, College Park offers a vibrant research environment near Washington D.C., with excellent facilities and strong connections to national labs and industry partners in energy and security sectors.