Next-generatIon Computer vision and Embodied intelligence (NICE) Lab
We are actively seeking for new members at all levels to join our Next-generatIon Computer vision and Embodied intelligence (NICE) Lab at Boise State. We have a supportive culture where you can do impactful research, learn new skills, and achieve your personal goals.
Why join Us at Boise State?
- Safe and welcoming community: Boise is consistently ranked among the safest cities in America.
- Top place to live: Recognized as one of the best cities for quality of life. Recognized by Wall Street Journal as the coolest city in Pacific Northwest.
- Outdoor paradise: Easy access to hiking, biking, skiing, and boating, all within minutes of campus. Recognized as Lonely Planet's Best Place to Travel in 2023.
- Great location: Only a 1-hour flight to Seattle, 2 hours to San Francisco, and 2.5 hours to Los Angeles.
- Strong research environment: Boise State is named one of the most innovative universities in the country by U.S. News and World Report, and is a rapidly growing research university with modern facilities and collaborative opportunities.
- Boise’s metropolitan area, with nearly 900,000 people, is home to major tech companies like Micron and HP as well as a growing startup scene, making it a great place to find internships and jobs.
Ph.D. Students (several fully funded Ph.D. positions are available for Fall 2026):
- I am always looking for self-motivated students to join my lab. The Ph.D. program is typically a four- to five-year journey that requires full commitment to conducting impactful research.
- Requirements: Related experience in deep learning, computer vision, or robotics is required for Ph.D. admission. A related first-author publication or a master’s degree is a plus.
- Funding: Full funding (tuition waiver + stipend) will be provided to my Ph.D. students.
- Application Timeline: The Computing Ph.D. program only accepts applications for Fall admission (not spring or summer).The official application deadline is usually in late December or early January. However, I encourage applicants interested in working with me to reach out as early as possible, and no later than November.
- See here for more information regarding to the Computing Ph.D. program and Application Requirements.
Master's Students:
- I generally do not provide financial support for master’s students, but I will make exceptions for exceptionally strong candidates.
- Requirements: A related bachelor's degree, reasonable GPA, and strong programming skills.
- Application Timeline: The official application deadline is usually in late December or early January. However, I encourage applicants interested in working with me to reach out as early as possible, and no later than early November.
- More information regarding to the computer science master's program is here.
Research Interns (flexible term, any time):
- We welcome both undergraduate and graduate interns from Boise State and other institutions.
- Remote intern options are availeble for students who are not enrolled in Boise State. Preferred candidates are located in North America for time zone compatibility.
- What we provide: GPU access, regular meetings with the PI, and opportunities for publication.
How to contact? If you are interested in joining our lab, please email your intent (e.g., Ph.D. application, research internship, independent study project, visiting scholar, etc.) to the lab director, Dr. Yu Zhang, along with your CV, publications (if any), transcripts (for students), and any other materials that you believe will help me understand your background.
Lab Director
Yu Zhang
