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 undergraduate and graduate students in all majors to join projects and gain experience in:
- Energy efficiency
- Artificial intelligence
- Nanotechnology
- Healthcare
- Transportation
Projects tackle real industry and societal needs and give students the tools and experience to succeed in the realm of research. CALIT2 researchers are generally involved in multidisciplinary research spanning at least 2 schools at UCI. We encourage prospective applicants to reach out directly to our research mentors to learn more about specific research projects and opportunities.
Requirements:
- GPA 3.0+ preferred (lower GPAs considered with explanation).
- Must commit at least 3 quarters (1 year) of research.
- Work a minimum of 8 hours/week (2 units = ~8 hrs).
- Attend team meetings, keep a research log, and submit a short report at the end of each quarter.
Benefits:
- Hands-on research experience in cutting-edge fields.
- Dedicated workspace, supplies, and equipment provided.
- Strong mentorship from faculty and project leaders.
- Opportunity to earn 1-3 course credits (199/299) and possibly paid positions after 2+ quarters of outstanding work.
- Letters of recommendation for committed students (after 2+ quarters).
- Build both technical and teamwork skills that boost your career.
Open Positions (Spring 2026):
Mentor: Dr. Shuoyu (Arnold) Wang
Position ID: TES-S26 – AI & Energy Efficiency
Project 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
Mentor: Chelsea Choudhary
Position ID: IAC-F25 – Energy Engineering
Project Description: Work on a DOE-funded projects that provides 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: SMART Industrial Training and Assessment Program
Mentors: Dr. G. P. Li and Dr. Shuoyu (Arnold) Wang
Position ID: DC-S26 – Electrical Engineering & AI-driven Management
Project Description: Gain hands-on research experience in exploring cost-effective retrofit strategies to enhance the energy efficiency of edge data centers. Research may tasks include:
- 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
Project Description: Gain hands-on research experience in developing holistic building load management on building equipment and systems — including lighting, HVAC, and plug load devices. Research may tasks include:
- 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 continuous monitoring, data collection and data analysis to evaluate energy savings and load reduction.
How to Apply
Application Deadline: All applicants (both new and returning students) must submit an application by 5:00 PM PST on Friday of Week 1 of each quarter (course registration deadline). For Spring 2026, the application deadline is April 3, 2026. Under select circumstances, we can accept applications by Week 3 (Fri, Apr 10 @ 5pm for Spring 2026) with Dean’s approval.
Selected students will be invited for an interview (in-person or virtual) to discuss skills, interests, and availability. Once matched with a project, students need to submit the appropriate 199/299 documentation.