Research Fellow – Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technologies

The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel Limited; Hong Kong; On-site; HKD 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel Limited is seeking a researcher to lead R&D projects in AI, ML, vision, and robotics, with a focus on textile-related applications. Responsibilities include planning milestones, developing proof-of-concept AI solutions, and coordinating with universities and industry partners.

Applicants should have a master's degree or higher in a STEM field, 5+ years of R&D experience, strong Python and AI development skills, and knowledge in LLMs,

Qualifications

• Master's degree or above in AI, Computer Science, Data Science, Physics, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Automation, or a related STEM discipline.
• Five or more years of relevant R&D/work experience; fresh PhD graduates may also be considered.
• Strong Python programming and AI/ML development skills.
• Experience in one or more areas: LLMs/Generative AI, AI Agents, RAG, Multimodal AI, Computer Vision, Robotics or MLOps.
• Experience in AI deployment, APIs, Docker, cloud/edge AI or robotic integration would be an advantage.
• Experience or knowledge in textile/material applications, computer vision imaging, camera/optical system setup, or industrial automation would be an advantage.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills; and
• Good command of written and spoken English and Chinese, with fluency in Putonghua would be an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead R&D projects and ensure milestones and deliverables.
• Research and develop advanced technologies in ML, DL, Generative AI, LLMs, AI Agents, Multimodal AI and CV.
• Explore emerging technologies and translate ideas into proofs of concept and potential projects.
• Develop AI solutions such as RAG/knowledge systems, intelligent agents, multimodal applications and CV systems.
• Develop and integrate AI/vision technologies with robotic systems for intelligent perception and automation.
• Conduct model training, fine-tuning, benchmarking, evaluation and system validation.
• Prepare technical documentation, project reports, R&D proposals and funding applications.
• Manage R&D projects, including technical and financial aspects and other administrative tasks.
• Coordinate with R&D researchers, universities and partners; handle inquiries professionally.
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

Skills

Python programming

AI/ML development

LLMs/Generative AI

Computer Vision

Robotics

MLOps

Education

Master's degree or above in AI/CS/DS/Physics/Electronic/Mechanical/Robotics/Automation

Tools

Docker

Job description

The appointee(s) will be required to:

• plan and lead R&D projects and ensure achievement of project milestones and deliverables;
• research and develop advanced technologies in Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Generative AI, LLMs, AI Agents, Multimodal AI and Computer Vision;
• explore emerging technologies and translate new ideas into proof-of-concepts and potential R&D projects;
• develop AI solutions such as RAG/knowledge systems, intelligent agents, multimodal applications and computer vision systems;
• develop and integrate AI/vision technologies with robotic systems for intelligent perception, manipulation, sorting and industrial automation;
• conduct model training, fine-tuning, benchmarking, evaluation and system validation;
• prepare technical documentation, project reports, R&D proposals and funding applications;
• manage R&D projects, including technical and financial aspects and other project administrative tasks, such as preparing project updates and reports;
• work closely with R&D researchers and personnel; coordinate with local and overseas universities, research institutions and business partners, and handle enquiries in a professional manner; and
• perform any other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• A master's degree or above in AI, Computer Science, Data Science, Physics, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Automation, or a related STEM discipline;
• Five or more years of relevant R&D/work experience; fresh PhD graduates may also be considered;
• Strong Python programming and AI/ML development skills;
• Experience in one or more areas: LLMs/Generative AI, AI Agents, RAG, Multimodal AI, Computer Vision, Robotics or MLOps;
• Experience in AI deployment, APIs, Docker, cloud/edge AI or robotic integration would be an advantage;
• Experience or knowledge in textile/material applications, computer vision imaging, camera/optical system setup, or industrial automation would be an advantage;
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills; and
• Good command of written and spoken English and Chinese, with fluency in Putonghua would be an advantage.

Applicants should state their current and expected salary in the application. Salary offered will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Appointment will be offered on a contract basis and under the scheme of Research Talent Hub (RTH) of Innovation and Technology Commission.