The University of Groningen in the Netherlands is offering two fully funded PhD positions in the field of swarm robotics and artificial intelligence, under the supervision of Dr. Bahar Haghighat, Assistant Professor of Robotics. These positions are part of an NWO Vidi project focused on the development of autonomous robot swarms for infrastructure inspection, with a particular emphasis on intelligent miniature robots that collectively inspect steel structures such as aging bridges.

The research will be conducted within the Discrete Technology & Production Automation (DTPA) group at the Engineering and Technology institute Groningen (ENTEG). The PhD projects are:

• PhD 1 – Robot Design & Experimental Validation: Involves the design, prototyping, and experimental evaluation of miniaturized mobile robots, including mechanical structure, electronics, and embedded software. The candidate will extend and redesign the hardware platform, develop robotic modules, and investigate the deployment of AI/ML models on microcontrollers for local data processing and intelligent decision making.
• PhD 2 – Distributed Swarm Control & Simulation: Focuses on the development and simulation of distributed control algorithms for robot swarms, enabling robust, scalable, and autonomous sensing and inspection applications.

Applicants should have a strong background in robotics, mechatronics, embedded systems, AI, computer science, mechanical or civil engineering, or related fields. Required skills include proficiency in C/C++, Python, Altium Designer, PCB design, and embedded systems (microcontrollers, RTOS, etc.). Prior experience with AI/ML algorithms is a strong plus. Fluency in English is required, with an official language certificate (TOEFL/IELTS) being advantageous; otherwise, proficiency will be assessed during the interview.

The positions are fully funded for four years, with a monthly salary between €3059 and €3881, 232 vacation hours per year (based on a 38-hour workweek), an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and 8% holiday allowance. The University of Groningen offers a vibrant, international research environment with extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.

To apply, candidates should use the provided AcademicTransfer or LinkedIn links for the specific PhD position and submit their application before March 31, 2026. For further information, applicants may contact Dr. Bahar Haghighat at [email protected].

This is an excellent opportunity to work at the intersection of swarm robotics, intelligent systems, and real-world impact, contributing to the advancement of autonomous systems for infrastructure inspection and monitoring.