Two PhD positions are available in a collaborative research project between the departments of 
Chemical and Biological engineering, Electrical and Computer engineering and Mathematics at the 
University of British Columbia. This project is jointly sponsored by Honeywell research centre in 
Vancouver, Canada and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

Project Description: The pulp and paper industry in Canada contributes billions of dollars to the 
economy each year and directly employs tens of thousands of people. This research project focusses 
on important challenges in model identification & maintenance and adaptive cross directional control 
of paper machines. The cross directional dynamics of paper machines are characterized by a large 
dimensional model with a special structure. The dynamics of this model, however, often change due 
to grade changes, paper wandering and other reasons. The control variable measurements are 
collected using a scanner that traverses a zig-zag path. This project will explore novel methods to 
scan and process data, maintain model fidelity and design an adaptive model predictive controller.

Requirements: We are looking for highly motivated students with stellar academic record and research 
experience in process control. In particular, students with experience in Model Predictive Control and 
System Identification/Signal Processing are encouraged to apply. Students must have  strong 
mathematical, analytical and communication skills. Students in Electrical/Mechanical/Chemical 
engineering/Mathematics or other related disciplines will be considered. A highly competitive 
compensation package will be offered. 

Interested students are requested to submit a curriculum vitae and a list of three references to 
[log in to unmask] We thank all the applicants, however, only those that have been selected for 
interview will be contacted. 

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Bhushan Gopaluni
Associate Professor
Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, BC
Canada V6T 1Z3
Phone: 604 827 5668
Fax: 604 822 6003
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