199/299 Student Research Opportunity

CALIT2 | Undergrad/Graduate 199/299 Student Research Opportunities 🧪🔍⭐

Are you interested in hands-on research that connects engineering, computer science, and real-world challenges? Calit2 is actively looking for motivated undergrad and grad students in all majors to join projects and gain experience in:

• Energy efficiency

• Artificial intelligence

• Nanotechnology

• Healthcare

• Transportation

Over 200 students and faculties are involved in Calit2 and its affiliated centers (CalPlug, INRF/BION) – working on projects that tackle real industry and societal needs. Together we can give you the tools and experience to succeed in the realm of research.

Current Open Positions (Spring 2026)

Position ID: TES-S26 – Machine Learning & Energy Efficiency

 Mentor: Dr. Shuoyu (Arnold) Wang

 Email: shuoyuw@uci.edu

Description: Join an interdisciplinary research team to apply AI and machine learning in performance prediction and control for thermal energy systems. Research tasks may include:

⭐ Generating high-fidelity thermal datasets through CFD and transient thermal simulations

⭐ Selecting and training advanced ML models validated with FE data

⭐ Developing AI applications for TES systems with varying scales and conditions

Position ID: IAC-S26 – Energy Engineering

Mentor: Chelsea Choudhary

Email: ccchoudh@uci.edu

Description:

     ⭐Working on DOE-funded projects that provide free energy assessments for small-/medium-sized manufacturers.

     ⭐Students will train as energy efficiency engineers, learning how to reduce waste, improve productivity, and understand U.S. supply chains.

                                                   📎More info: SmartIAC Program

Position ID: DC-S26 – Electrical Engineering & AI-driven Management

Mentor: Professor G.P. Li & Dr. Shuoyu (Arnold) Wang

Email: gpli@calit2.uci.edu / shuoyuw@uci.edu

Description: Join this project to get hands-on research in exploring cost-effective retrofit strategies to enhance the energy efficiency of edge data centers.

⭐Evaluate energy consumption of both IT equipment server loads and facility cooling loads of server rooms.

⭐Develop AI-driven algorithm to achieve real-time load management for data centers.

⭐Conduct continuous energy monitoring and data analysis at Calit2 facility across multiple phases of technology demonstration.

Position ID: BA-S26 – Building Automation & Remote Sensing and Control

Mentor: Professor G.P. Li & Dr. Shuoyu (Arnold) Wang

Email: gpli@calit2.uci.edu / shuoyuw@uci.edu

Description: Join this project to get hands-on research in developing holistic building load management on building equipment and systems — including lighting, HVAC, and plug load devices.

⭐Explore innovative occupancy-based monitoring strategies in building environment.

⭐Develop AI-driven load prediction algorithm to enable real-time and proactive control of building lighting and HVAC systems.

⭐Demonstrate the technology at selected campus site through continous monitoring, data collection and data analysis to evaluate energy savings and load reduction.

How to Apply

1. 

   Scan for application!

   Fill out the application form: Click Here! 

2. Upload a one-page resume + unofficial transcript

3. Indicate which project leader you’d like to work with:

• • Prof. GP Li – gpli@calit2.uci.edu
  • Chelsea Choudhary – ccchoudh@uci.edu
  • Dr. Arnold Wang – shuoyuw@uci.edu

WHATS NEXT?

Selected students will be invited for an interview (in-person or zoom) to discuss your skills, interests, and availability. Once matched to a project, you’ll need to submit the appropriate 199/299 paperworks.