Luleå University of Technology is growing rapidly with world-leading expertise in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefits. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has a total turnover of SEK 2 billion per year. We are currently 1,500 employees and have 17,900 students. In the coming years, billions of kronor will be invested in Norrbotten and Västerbotten in major projects aimed at a more sustainable society nationally as well as globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these highly topical research projects and the social transformation that follows. We have a wide range of programs to match the skills that are in demand. We hope you will help us build the sustainable businesses and societies of the future. Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, RAI, at the Department of Computer Science, Electrical and Space Engineering at Luleå University of Technology is now looking for a PhD student to contribute to our growing activities. The RAI team conducts fundamental and principled research in all aspects of robotics with a specific focus on airborne, space and bio-inspired robotics. Subject description Robotics and Artificial Intelligence aims to develop new robotic systems characterized by advanced autonomy to improve the ability of robots to interact with the environment and humans while performing specific tasks. Project description RAI's fundamental vision is to close the gap between theory and reality and the team has a strong background in field robotics. Application areas we focus on are robotics for mines, airborne inspection of aging infrastructure, multi-robot search and rescue for emergency services and the like. Furthermore, we work on multi-sensor fusion and multi-robot coordination which includes environment perception, decentralization and execution of specified missions for multi-robot systems. The RAI team has a strong European and national participation in several R&D&I projects. Duties and responsibilities You will perform research with experimental elements published in internationally recognized academic journals and at major conferences. You will also work on thesis supervision, teaching assistance and support in applying for funds for future research projects from research funding agencies/councils, EU projects or industry. As a PhD student, you will work in the field of autonomous robotic systems and the activities will be linked to national, European and global R&D projects. The PhD position will involve intensive research activities in design, experimentation and theoretical development where the following research areas serve as a template for relevant directions. Research areas: Robot navigation and motion planning in unknown environments a) Robust obstacle avoidance in complex and dynamic environments - Body and dynamics-based local navigation - Approachability and terrain analysis - Scene awareness for terrain and obstacle perception b) Algorithms for robot exploration - Planning of the next best trajectory - Source localization - Semantic exploration c) Interaction & motion planning - Manipulator motion planning in obstacle-filled environments - Picking and placing in unfamiliar and dynamic scenes d) Mission-specific modules for applications in unknown environments, such as autonomous firefighting, robotic sampling in hazardous areas or search and rescue operations. For further information on specific PhD training, please refer to the curricula for PhD training in the Faculty of Engineering Qualifications To be eligible for a PhD position, you must have a five-year university degree in computer science, engineering physics or other relevant subject. Good scientific skills and excellence in experimental research as well as good communication skills in speech and writing. You will represent the group in different contexts, both in Sweden and abroad, hence very good knowledge of English is a requirement. Information about the position Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full time. Place of employment Luleå and access by agreement. For further information, please contact: George Nikolakopoulos, Professor and Head of Department, 0920-49 1298, geonik@ltu.se Trade union representative: SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037 diana.chroneer@ltu.se OFR-S Lars Frisk, 0920-49 1792 lars.frisk@ltu.se How to apply We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below where you attach a personal letter and CV/resume with scientific merits, at least two references and copies of verified diplomas. The diplomas must be written in Swedish or English. The application must be written in English. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Application deadline: January 16, 2025 Reference number: LTU-4797-2024