Dr Laibing Jia

Personal statement

For the past decade, my academic journey has been both rewarding and challenging. In 2009, I began this journey by earning my PhD from the University of Science and Technology of China, specialising in the fundamental mechanics of fluid-structure interactions, an initial foray into the vast expanse of engineering research. Subsequent postdoctoral research experiences in both China and the United States offered opportunities to deepen my understanding and expand the breadth of my knowledge in renewable energy. In recognition of my research potential, I was awarded the Royal Society K.C. Wong Postdoctoral Fellowship under the Newton International Fellowship scheme. This fellowship led me to the University of Strathclyde, where I started as a Royal Society sponsored Research Fellow. After a period back in China, I returned to the university and continues to date, with my current role as a Chancellor's Fellow, a position I took up in 2019 under the Strathclyde Global Talent Programme.

My research has always been focused on the realm of experimental investigation and examination of the interactions between structural dynamics and fluids. This specific area of inquiry carries a significant potential for a broad spectrum of applications and has led to numerous contributions to the academic community. These contributions have been recognised and published in several prestigious international journals, such as Nature Communications, Science Advances, Physical Review Letters, Journal of Fluid Mechanics, Royal Society Interface, and Physics of Fluids. My studies primarily revolve around bio-inspired propulsion and renewable energy, reflect my interests and also provide insights into potential developments in this dynamic and ever-evolving field.

As looking forwards, I plan to evolve my research directions by integrating experimental mechanics with the emergent fields of artificial intelligence (AI). Recognising the transformative potential of these fields, I am in the process of co-founding two Strathclyde Centres for Doctoral Training (SCDTs). One centre aspires to leverage AI to augment Ocean Forecasts for Marine Operations, while the other aims to utilise human-centred AI technologies to foster inclusivity in Education and Society. A crucial aspect of these initiatives is the intriguing concept of incorporating 'digital twins' into real-world applications. I am firmly convinced that the confluence of digital twins, AI, and sensor fusion technologies can revolutionise our approach to critical applications such as marine operations and inclusive education. In these initiatives, my vision remains anchored in delivering research with real-world impact, advancing societal well-being and sustainability.