Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network Research Fellow
Join an EU-funded doctoral network developing advanced robotic monitoring and data processing for dynamic seafloor environments.
Best for:Best for researchers with a background in robotics, computer vision, or marine engineering interested in subsea autonomy.
Overview
The University of Southampton is seeking a PhD researcher to join the BlueOcean Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network. This project focuses on developing novel robotic monitoring and data processing methods to document changes in seafloor environments over large spatial scales. The successful candidate will work on robotic localization, high-resolution mapping, and machine learning-based feature detection to align subsea scenes in GNSS-denied environments. The role involves interdisciplinary training, collaboration with 13 other PhD researchers across Europe, and international secondments. Applicants will contribute to probabilistic modeling and validation through simulation and field campaigns.
What you'll do
- Develop novel robotic localization and high-resolution mapping methods for subsea environments.
- Implement machine learning-based feature detection to align evolving seafloor scenes across repeated surveys.
- Create probabilistic models to detect subtle seafloor changes under sensor noise and uncertainty.
- Validate research findings using simulation, existing AUV datasets, and new field campaign data.
- Conduct controlled experiments in the Maritime Robotics and Instrumentation Laboratory deep-water tank.
- Participate in interdisciplinary training and secondments with international project partners.
- Collaborate with a network of 13 PhD researchers and industry partners within the BlueOcean network.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English proficiency required.
Instruction: English
- Strong background in robotics, computer vision, or machine learning.
- Experience with probabilistic modeling or sensor data processing.
- Ability to conduct independent research and contribute to interdisciplinary teams.
- Proficiency in programming for robotic applications.
- Must not hold a doctoral degree at the time of recruitment.
- Must not have resided or carried out main activity (work, studies) in the UK for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately prior to recruitment.
- Open to candidates of any nationality.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-04
Applicants must submit a CV, two reference letters, and degree transcripts. Applications must be submitted through the university's official portal.
- CV
- Two reference letters
- Degree Transcripts/Certificates
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