September 2026
Full time
24 months
Taicang, Suzhou
This programme leads to a University of Liverpool degree which is recognised by Ministry of Education, China.
Knowledge and Skills
Graduates of the MRes Advanced Intelligent Manufacturing Technology programme will gain a sophisticated and integrated skill set, distinguished by its depth of research and technical specialisation:
- Advanced research and technical innovation: mastery of applied research methodologies and the ability to leverage state-of-the-art technologies – such as intelligent robotics, advanced numerical modelling, and big data analytics – to investigate and innovate solutions for complex manufacturing and industrial systems;
- Critical systems analysis and complex problem-solving: proficiency in modelling, analysing, and deconstructing intricate engineering systems using principles of systems thinking, enabling the diagnosis of core challenges and the development of novel, evidence-based solutions for advanced industrial applications;
- Technical integration and specialised knowledge synthesis: competence in synthesising deep knowledge from specialised domains – including material science, mechanical system design, sensor technologies, and data management – to architect integrated, intelligent manufacturing solutions;
- Engineering leadership and strategic decision-making: development of leadership competencies and the application of structured decision-making frameworks – such as engineering systems analysis – to manage technical projects, optimise resources, and guide technology strategy within industrial and entrepreneurial contexts;
- Collaborative research and interdisciplinary engagement: skill in collaborating within diverse, cross-functional teams and with industrial partners to design, execute, and communicate impactful research that addresses real-world technological and operational challenges; and
- Advanced communication and research valorisation: enhanced ability to articulate complex technical concepts and research findings clearly to both specialist and non-specialist audiences, and to translate fundamental research outcomes into actionable insights for industrial innovation and academic contribution.
Welcome to our Master of Research programme, designed for talents shaping the future of intelligent manufacturing. In an era of technological transformation, technical proficiency alone is insufficient. Our transdisciplinary programme cultivates innovators with cutting-edge technical insight, rigorous research capabilities, and strategic engineering leadership. The curriculum, co-created by academics and industry experts, features a year-long industrial research dissertation—your opportunity to complete an innovation cycle guided by academic and industry mentors. Join us to become a driving force in advanced intelligent manufacturing, where intelligence ignites technology and research drives transformation.
Dr Wei Chen
Programme Director
Modules
*Programme modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. XJTLU students are advised to log in to the e-Bridge Portal to view the effectuated module structure.
Semester 1
- Material Science and Manufacturing Processes
- Applied Research Techniques and Methodologies
Semester 2
- Control and Sensor Technologies Applications
- Intelligent Robotic and Applications
- Leadership
Semester 3 and 4
- Research Dissertation
Semester 1
- Advanced Numerical Modelling Method
- Intelligent Mechanical System Design and Application
- Big Data Mining, Analysis, and Management
- Industrial Internet of Things
Semester 2
- Systems Thinking and Modelling
- Engineering Systems Analysis and Decision Making
Careers
Graduates of the MRes Advanced Intelligent Manufacturing Technology programme will emerge as versatile and forward-thinking professionals, distinguished by a unique blend of advanced technical expertise and strategic systemic competencies. They will possess a deep, research-informed understanding of intelligent manufacturing technologies, including robotics, data analytics, and advanced mechanical systems. This background will enable graduates to design, optimise, and innovate within complex industrial environments.
Beyond technical mastery, graduates will be equipped with robust systems thinking and analytical decision-making skills. They will demonstrate the ability to model complex engineering challenges, evaluate multicriteria solutions, and lead projects with a holistic perspective on technical, operational, and human factors. Their capability to conduct rigorous, industry-relevant research – culminating in a significant dissertation – fosters a mindset of critical inquiry, evidence-based problem-solving, and sustained innovation.
Furthermore, the programme cultivates essential leadership and entrepreneurial attributes. Graduates will be prepared to assume managerial responsibilities, drive technological change, and create value either within established organisations or through entrepreneurial ventures. This combination of deep technical knowledge, systemic analysis skills, research acumen, and leadership readiness prepares them to become influential contributors and leaders in the future landscape of advanced manufacturing and intelligent industry.
Overview
The Master of Research (MRes) in Advanced Intelligent Manufacturing Technology is an intensive, research-oriented programme designed to foster specialists who can drive innovation at the intersection of advanced engineering and intelligent systems. Hosted within a forward-thinking academic ecosystem, it equips graduates with deep technical expertise, robust research methodologies, and strategic leadership skills essential for tackling complex industrial challenges.
The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive foundation in the first year, combining core manufacturing principles with leading-edge intelligent technologies. Students engage with essential modules such as Material Science and Manufacturing Processes, Applied Research Techniques and Methodologies, and Big Data Mining and Management. The programme’s intelligent systems focus is advanced through specialised modules in Intelligent Robotic Applications, Control and Sensor Technologies, and a choice between Advanced Numerical Modelling or Intelligent Mechanical System Design. Complementing this technical core, students develop critical holistic engineering competencies through Systems Thinking and Modelling or Engineering Systems Analysis and Decision Making, alongside a dedicated Leadership module.
A defining feature of the MRes Advanced Intelligent Manufacturing Technology programme is its substantial research component. The entire second year is dedicated to an industrial research dissertation, conducted in collaboration with industry partners. The year-long, in-depth project allows students to apply their learned theories and methodologies to a real-world industrial problem, fostering not only practical application but also significant innovation and contribution to the field.
Integrating advanced manufacturing knowledge, data intelligence, systems engineering, and leadership, the MRes Advanced Intelligent Manufacturing Technology programme prepares graduates for high-impact roles as research engineers, technology developers, and innovative leaders in the evolving landscape of advanced and intelligent manufacturing.