Research Assistant I/II in the Department of Real Estate and Construction (Ref.: 532915) (to commence as soon as possible for six months to one year, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability)
Applicants should possess a Bachelor’s degree and/or Master’s degree. The appointees will assist in the “e-InStar 3.0: Blockchain smart contract-based smart payment platform for MiC projects” research project under the ITF Public Sector Trial Scheme (PSTS). This project aims to customise and upgrade the previously developed e-InStar 1.0 and 2.0 applications, launching the world’s first Blockchain Smart Contract-based MiC Smart Payment Platform, e-InStar 3.0. The platform will be piloted in Hong Kong public housing projects.
The appointees will
(1) Participate in the frontend and backend development of the e-InStar 3.0 Smart Payment Platform;
(2) Support the integration and deployment of smart contracts, enabling automatic progress calculation, digital payment certification, and smart invoice generation;
(3) Collaborate on customised blockchain platform development to ensure security, transparency, and traceability of payment data; and
(4) Work closely with the research team to facilitate the platform’s pilot implementation in public housing projects.
We are looking for candidates with:
1. academic backgrounds in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields;
2. proficiency in at least one frontend or backend programming language (Java, JavaScript, Python, Go, etc.);
3. familiarity with enterprise blockchain platforms (e.g., Hyperledger Fabric) and smart contract development experience is preferred;
4. excellent teamwork skills with the ability to closely collaborate with developers and product managers; and
5. good communication and writing skills in English.
What we offer
The appointees will gain excellent blockchain system and platform development experience from this post. The appointment will commence as soon as possible on a temporary basis for six months to one year, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability. A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered. Other benefits include annual leave, medical benefits, and free access to on-campus gyms and libraries.
How to apply:
The University only accepts online applications for the above posts. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date CV and a 100-word introduction of their current status and future plan. Inquiries about the post should be sent to Dr Ziyu Peng via zypeng@hku.hk. Please format the email subject line as: "Application for PSTS Research Assistant - [Your Name] - [University] - [Major]".
Review of applications will commence as soon as possible and continue until September 14, 2025, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
More about iLab:
Our research team is based in the Faculty of Architecture at The University of Hong Kong. Successful applicants will join the iLab laboratory. The core team of iLab includes one Academician from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, two Chair Professors, one Associate Professor, two Research Assistant Professors, and over 50 Post-doctoral researchers and PhD students. It is a team dedicated to transforming the construction industry through interdisciplinary collaboration. For more details about iLab, please visit: https://www.arch.hku.hk/researchcentre/ilab/.
The University is an equal opportunities employer and
is committed to equality, ethics, inclusivity, diversity and transparency
