Student Hiring (Ph.D. / M.S. / Undergraduate)

Bo Chen will join the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) as a Tenure-Track Associate Professor in Fall 2026.
He is actively seeking highly self-motivated students at all levels (Ph.D., M.S., and Undergraduate) to join his research group starting Fall 2026.

If you are interested, please email your CV and a brief description of your research interests to
boc2 [at] illinois [dot] edu.

Research Directions

My research lies at the intersection of computer systems, machine learning, and immersive/spatial computing. I am particularly excited about problems that cut across traditional boundaries, including (but not limited to):

1. Systems for Machine Learning
   (e.g., LLMs, VLMs, NeRF, 3D Gaussian Splatting)
2. Machine Learning for Systems
   (e.g., Networking/Operating/Distributed/Quantum Systems)
3. Spatial Intelligence & Immersive Computing
   (e.g., XR, 3D Perception, Embodied/Spatial Reasoning)
4. Bold, unconventional ideas that challenge existing assumptions

Students are strongly encouraged to propose and shape their own research directions.

Preferred Qualifications

I am especially interested in students who are:

1. Highly self-motivated and curious
2. Comfortable with (or eager to learn) systems, machine learning, or VR/XR
3. Able to communicate ideas clearly, both in writing and in discussion

A strong background in all areas is not required—motivation and growth mindset matter more.

Advising Philosophy

I genuinely enjoyed my own Ph.D. journey, and my goal is to help you enjoy yours as well—while becoming a strong, independent researcher.

Specifically:

1. I will brainstorm closely with you to develop concrete, impactful research ideas.
2. I will provide hands-on guidance in coding, system building, and academic writing in the early stages, with the goal that you become fully independent within 2–3 years.
3. I will support you through the inevitable challenges of a Ph.D., both technical and personal. Research is hard, and you won’t face it alone.

Contact

If you made it this far and feel excited about any of the topics above, I would love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out with your background, interests, or even just a bold idea you want to explore.