PhD Student in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

Luleå Tekniska Universitet · Full-time

Luleå, Sweden

Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a doctoral student with us, you will work closely with leading researchers in a strong, international research environment, with access to advanced laboratory equipment and solid funding opportunities. You will be offered secure employment, high-quality supervision, and room to grow, both as a researcher and as a person. The Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (RAI) research subject at the Department of Computer Science, Electrical and Space Engineering at Luleå University of Technology is expanding and is looking for a PhD student to strengthen its research on intelligent soft robotic systems. Our international team conducts fundamental and applied research in aerial, space, field and bio-inspired robotics, with a strong focus on translating advanced theory into robotic systems validated in real-world environments. Learn more about https://www.ltu.se/en/research/research-subjects/robotics-and-ai. Subject description Robotics and artificial intelligence aim to develop novel robotic systems that are characterized by advanced autonomy for improving the ability of robots to interact with the surrounding environment and humans during the execution of specific tasks. Project description You will join the RAI team and contribute to the development of next-generation soft robotic systems that can adapt to complex environments and uncertain interaction conditions. The vision of RAI is to close the gap from theory to real life, while the team has strong expertise in field robotics. The research will combine theoretical development, simulation and hands-on experimentation. Relevant directions include embodied intelligence, foundation models for adaptive soft robots, real-time stiffness-aware control, resilient autonomy for self-healing robotic platforms, and uncertainty-aware predictive human–robot interaction. The work will be connected to national and international research and innovation projects. Duties As a PhD student, you will carry out both theoretical and experimental research within your doctoral studies. Most of your working time will be devoted to your research. You will communicate your results through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and international conferences. The position may also include teaching, supervision of master's students and participation in research funding applications. You will be working in the field of robotic autonomy and all activities will be linked with national, European and worldwide R&D projects. The research topic is in the area of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence. More specifically, the position will involve intensive research activities in the area of designing, experimenting and theoretical development, with the following research areas providing a template for relevant directions: Embodied Intelligence for Soft Robotic Systems Foundational Models for Adaptive Soft Robots Real-Time Adaptive and Stiffness-Aware Control Resilient Autonomy for Self-Healing Soft Robotic Platforms Uncertainty-Aware and Predictive Human-Robot Interaction Qualifications To be qualified for the position, you must have an MSc degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering or Computer Science or a related subject. Excellent scientific skills with excellence in real-world experimentation, as well as very good communication skills are considered a strong plus. You will represent the group in different contexts, both in Sweden and worldwide, so very good knowledge of English is a must. Experience in one or more of the following areas is considered an advantage: soft or bio-inspired robotics, robot control, artificial intelligence or machine learning, modeling and simulation, experimental robotics, and scientific programming. Previous scientific publications or experience from research and development projects are also meritorious. We value candidates who are analytical, self-motivated and able to work both independently and as part of an international research team. For further information about a specific subject see http://www.ltu.se/research/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva/Studieplaner/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd?l=en Further information Employment as a PhD student is limited to four years. Teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to a maximum of 20%. Location: Luleå. Starting date: by agreement. For each position, a preliminary salary information is provided based on the requirements, responsibilities, and market conditions associated with the role. For further information about the position, please contact Chaired Professor George Nikolakopoulos, +46 920-49 1298, mailto:[email protected]. https://www.ltu.se/en/about-the-university/work-with-us/applying-for-a-job#h-Tradeunioncontacts In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence. Application We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking the apply button below. The application should include a CV, personal letter and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish. Closing date for applications: 7 October, 2026 Reference number: 4815-2026