PhD Research Fellow in Learning-Based Control of Autonomous Robot Manipulation
Develop cutting-edge learning-based control and computer vision for autonomous robotic manipulation in challenging environments.
Best for:Best for recent master’s graduates in mechatronics, control systems, or robotics with expertise in advanced control theory, machine learning, and programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or ROS.
Overview
This PhD position at the University of Agder (UiA) focuses on advancing autonomous robotic manipulation through learning-based control, machine learning, and perception methods. The successful candidate will work within the Robotics and Automation research group, exploring algorithms for robust and adaptive robotic systems. The project involves real-world testing on robotic platforms at the Motion Lab in Grimstad, Norway, with opportunities for international research collaborations. The role includes research, publication, and dissemination activities, contributing to both academic and industrial applications in fields like offshore exploration and maintenance.
What you'll do
- Develop and test learning-based control algorithms for robotic manipulation in complex environments.
- Investigate advanced visual perception methods for object detection, scene understanding, and interaction under challenging conditions.
- Validate research methods on real robotic platforms at the Motion Lab in Grimstad.
- Collaborate with international research partners in Japan, Canada, and the USA under the UTFORSK NCUJ-SCORE project.
- Prepare and submit research reports, publish high-quality scientific articles, and participate in international dissemination activities.
- Contribute to the active research community at UiA with independent, goal-oriented work.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in mechatronics, control systems, robotics, or a closely related field obtained within the last five years.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English proficiency; TOEFL 92 (iBT) or IELTS 6.5 for non-exempt candidates
Instruction: English
- Expertise in advanced control theory, robotics, or mechatronics
- Programming proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or C/C++
- Experience with Robot Operating System (ROS)
- Strong background in machine learning methods
- Minimum average grade of B (or equivalent) for master’s degree courses and thesis
- Master’s degree obtained within the last five years
- Average grade of B or higher for master’s degree courses and thesis
- Average grade of C or higher for bachelor’s degree courses
- Eligibility for admission to UiA’s PhD programme in Engineering and Science
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-28
Submit all required documents electronically via the university’s application portal. Required documents include transcripts, diplomas, a summary of the master’s thesis, CV, letter of motivation, project description, up to 5 academic articles, and contact details for two referees. All documents must be in English or a Scandinavian language.
- Transcripts and diplomas for master’s and bachelor’s studies with grades
- Summary of the master’s thesis (max 2 pages)
- CV with detailed education, work experience, and list of scientific publications
- Letter of motivation and brief project description (max 2 pages)
- Up to 5 academic articles for emphasis
- Names and contact information of 2 referees
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.