/Wraps/wrap09/controls/api/event_system/render has no handler for Purdue Event Documents of type 'Gilbreth Fellowship Research Proposal'

An AI-Augmented Collaborative Multiplayer Mixed-Reality Bioreactor for Biomanufacturing Training

September 10, 2026

Share:

Project Description

A 30L bioreactor prototype for biomanufacturing training and education (fermentation, bioprocessing) was created using Meta Quest and Unity for Mixed Reality (MR) collaborative lab learning with AI assistant. The prototype needs to be expanded to execute macro-level fermentation lab experiments and micro-level fermentation chemistry concept learning. Additionally, learning assessment data needs to be collected to assess team-based learning in immersive environment.

The candidate will (1) lead the development of additional learning modules in MR together with subsequent AI assistant development and optimization for those learning modules; (2) conduct engineering educational research on the collaborative learning in immersive environment with an AI assistant, including but is not limited to research design, instrument development/modification, pilot data collection, and analysis; (3) mentor and manage a team of undergraduate and graduate students; and (4) actively contribute to proposal developments.

Start Date

Fall 2027

Postdoc Qualifications

Proficient in developing virtual reality applications and GenAI assistants, with familiarity with human-subjects research. Skilled in conducting literature reviews and academic writing. Background in Engineering Technology + Digital Enterprise Systems, Industrial Engineering, Systems Engineering, Engineering Education, Computer Science, or a related field.

Co-advisors

  • Xinyu Zhang, xinyu.zhang@purdue.edu, Sustainability Engineering and Environmental Engineering, https://engineering.purdue.edu/SEE/People/ptProfile?resource_id=299964
  • Young-Jun Son, yjson@purdue.edu, Industrial Engineering, https://engineering.purdue.edu/IE/people/ptProfile?resource_id=270111

Bibliography

  • Zhang, X., Roberts, J. G., Abane, T., Ebewele, E., Fisher, S., Saenz, V., & Polyak, E. (2026, June). Develop and pilot a virtual reality–based bioreactor for biomanufacturing and environmental engineering labs. In Frontiers in Education (Vol. 11, p. 1834044). Frontiers Media SA.
  • Jain, S., Lee, S., Barber, S. R., & Son, Y. J. (2026). Surgical proficiency assessment using virtual reality (VR)-based hybrid simulation for minimally invasive procedures. Computers & Education: X Reality, 8, 100128.
  • Sepanloo, K., Shevelev, D., Son, Y. J., Aras, S., & Hinton, J. E. (2025). Assessing physiological stress responses in student nurses using mixed reality training. Sensors, 25(10), 3222.
  • Sepanloo, K., Shevelev, D., Islam, M. T., Son, Y. J., Aras, S., & Hinton, J. E. (2025). Improving nursing education through an AI-enhanced mixed reality training platform: development and pilot evaluation: K. Sepanloo et al. Educational technology research and development, 73(3), 1835-1863.
  • Sepanloo, K., Chen, Y., Shevelev, D., Aras, S., Newton, T., Son, Y. J., ... & Carter, B. (2023). A Multi-Sensor Integrated with Augmented Reality System for Precise Nursing Education and Analysis. In IISE Annual Conference. Proceedings (pp. 1-6). Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE).