The University of Luxembourg, a modern and international research university, is offering a fully funded PhD position in Learning-Based Robot Motion within the Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT). The Automation & Robotics Research Group is seeking a motivated doctoral researcher to join the PCS-GRAPHS project, which focuses on integrating situational awareness, planning, and control for autonomous robots using advanced S-Graphs and XS-Graphs. This project is funded by the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR) and aims to develop novel multilayered approaches for robot motion planning and control, leveraging both model-based and learning-based solutions.

The research will involve extending situational awareness models to XS-Graphs, incorporating probabilistic graphical models such as factor graphs, and fusing multimodal sensor information at different abstraction layers. The PhD candidate will contribute to the development of semantic planning, plan decomposition, and dedicated controllers (e.g., model predictive control) for efficient planning and control on subsegments of the XS-Graph. The approach will be validated through simulations, experiments, and demonstrations using drones, legged, and humanoid robots in state-of-the-art laboratories.

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor Holger Voos, collaborating with national and international partners including INRIA Rennes, University of Zaragoza, TU Munich, and University College London. Responsibilities include disseminating research findings at top international conferences (ICRA, IROS), supervising Master and Bachelor students, and assisting with project organization.

Applicants should have a strong academic background in robotics, computer science, mechatronics, mechanical or electrical engineering, or applied mathematics. Essential skills include experience in motion planning and control, SLAM, reinforcement and deep learning in robotics, probabilistic approaches, and programming proficiency in Python, C/C++, ROS, and ROS2. Matlab and AI/ML tools are advantageous. Candidates must demonstrate at least B2-level proficiency in the thesis language and possess outstanding academic records, teamwork experience, and preferably international exposure.

The position offers a fixed-term contract of 36 months (extendable to 48 months), a yearly gross salary of EUR 41976, and access to high-quality equipment and infrastructure. The University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Applications should be submitted online via the HR system, including a CV, publication list, portfolio, cover letter, and transcript. Early applications are encouraged as review is ongoing.