PhD and Postdoc Positions in AI for Robotic Body-Brain Co-Design at University of Oslo

The University of Oslo's Department of Informatics is offering exciting PhD and Postdoctoral opportunities in the field of Artificial Intelligence for Robotic Body-Brain Co-Design. These positions are part of The Norwegian Centre for Embodied AI (NCEI), providing a unique chance to work within an international research community and access world-class facilities. The research focuses on the co-design of robot morphology and control systems, aiming to develop robust, intelligent robots capable of operating in diverse environments such as forests, industrial facilities, and underwater caves. Key research activities include developing evolutionary algorithms and quality-diversity methods to jointly optimize robot bodies and brains, working with genotype-to-phenotype mappings, addressing motion and fabrication constraints, integrating autonomy stacks (perception, learning, planning), and performing sim-to-real transfer. The positions offer the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at one of Norway’s six national AI centres, with access to extensive workshops and career development programs. The PhD position (Ref: 295841) requires a Master’s degree in robotics, computer science, AI, or a related field (to be completed by July 1, 2026), strong programming and AI/machine learning skills, and an average grade of B or better. The postdoctoral position (Ref: 295319) requires a PhD in a relevant field (dissertation submitted by the closing date), experience with evolutionary robotics and simulation tools like Isaac Gym, and a strong publication record. Both positions are fully funded, with the PhD salary ranging from NOK 550,800 to 595,000 and the postdoc salary from NOK 595,000 to 690,000 per year. The roles are based at the Department of Informatics, Norway's largest university department for computer science, and include generous welfare benefits, a high-quality pension scheme, and opportunities for exercise during working hours. To apply, candidates must submit a cover letter, research proposal (max 7,000 characters), CV, and academic transcripts via the Jobbnorge portal. For more information, contact Professor Kyrre Glette ([email protected]) or Associate Professor Kai Olav Ellefsen ([email protected]). Application deadlines are March 15, 2026 (PhD) and March 16, 2026 (Postdoc).