Zhikang Lai

Finite in Life, Boundless in Curiosity, Onward to the Unmapped.

About Me

I am an algorithm engineer with six years of experience in designing data-driven and physics-based models that bridge applied mathematics and real-world engineering.

I enjoy addressing complex problems with focused, deep thinking and value each stage of the process, from ideation to implementation. My long-term goal is to transform my knowledge and skills into practical, real-world engineering solutions.

🎓 Academic Pursuit

I am actively pursuing ​PhD/MPhil opportunities​ to deepen my research capabilities in cutting-edge interdisciplinary applications. My focus areas are (in no particular order):

  • Machine Learning
  • Mathematical Optimization
  • Nonlinear Dynamics
  • Statistical Analysis

I hope to join an open, inclusive research group that values collaboration and mutual learning.

Research & Professional Experience (2019 – Present)

  • COVID-19 Transmission Dynamics — Studied COVID-19 transmission patterns using mathematical modeling to infer key transmission parameters and forecast outbreak trajectories across multiple countries.

  • Tire Dynamics Modelling — Conducted inverse parameter identification for complex mechanical systems to characterize tire behavior under varying load conditions.

  • Electronic Component Lifetime Prediction — Developed data-driven prognostic models to estimate the service life of travelling-wave tubes in high-power microwave systems.

  • Spatial Geometry & Path Planning — Created a 3D spatial-geometry toolbox for UAV real-time monitoring, automating optimized waypoint generation and camera parameter calibration (focal length, yaw/pitch). Integrated pathfinding algorithms (Dijkstra, 3D Jump Point Search) with TSP route optimization to compute globally optimal flight trajectories under constraints.

  • Solar Surface Irradiance — Devised physics-based models to estimate ground-level solar radiation from localized sunshine-duration records.

Open-source Projects & Tutorials

  • LiteGeometry: I am the creator of LiteGeometry, a lightweight and high-performance C++ toolkit for 2D/3D spatial geometry and path planning. The repository provides well-commented source code, step-by-step examples.

    🔗 Explore it on https://litegeometry.github.io.

Research Expertise

Core Technical Competencies (2019-Present):

  • Parameter Identification
  • Mathematical Optimization
  • Machine Learning
  • Numerical solution of differential equations
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Spatial Geometry Modeling
  • Data Mining

📧 Get in Touch

I’m currently exploring PhD / MPhil opportunities worldwide.

If our research interests align, I would be delighted to discuss potential supervision or collaborative projects.

Please let me know if you would like me to provide my full CV or any additional information.

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