The University of Agder (UiA) in collaboration with CERN offers a unique PhD position in Multi-robot Mapping and Environmental Data Sharing in Uncertain Environments. This joint UiA-CERN PhD opportunity is based in the Department of Engineering Sciences at UiA and the Controls Electronics and Mechatronics group within the Beams Department at CERN. The successful candidate will spend 18 months at UiA and 18 months at CERN, remaining enrolled in the UiA PhD programme throughout the 36-month duration.

The project focuses on legged robots, which are essential for autonomous operations in environments where wheeled platforms are unsuitable, such as CERN’s experimental caverns. The research aims to design and implement a cloud-based architecture for storing and managing maps and sensor data, enabling efficient data sharing across multiple robots and missions. Key objectives include developing compact data representation, mission-tailored transmission strategies, and algorithms for combining data from multiple sources to enhance accuracy and visibility. The project will also explore predictive methods for identifying future environmental conditions and areas of interest, supporting proactive maintenance and operational efficiency in challenging environments.

Applicants must be citizens of a CERN member state or associated member state and hold an MSc (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, or a similar discipline. Students in their final MSc semester may apply if they complete their degree before July 1st 2026. Required qualifications include a minimum grade B (or equivalent) in the MSc thesis and master's courses, C or higher in bachelor's courses, strong analytical skills, and fundamental knowledge in mathematical modeling, mechanics, kinematics, dynamics, control, communication, networking, mapping, programming (C++, MATLAB or similar), sensors, data acquisition, and electrical actuators. English proficiency is mandatory, with TOEFL (min 600 PBT/92 iBT) or IELTS (min 6.5) scores required for international candidates unless exempt. Additional requirements may apply for applicants with less than 5 years of education.

Desired qualifications include experience with research and publication, modeling and simulation of systems with uncertainty, and knowledge of networking and data transfer protocols. Personal qualities sought are motivation, creativity, teamwork, independence, and strong communication skills.

The position is jointly funded by UiA and CERN. The candidate will have a contract of employment at UiA as a PhD Research Fellow (code 1017) for 18 months, with a salary of NOK 550,800 per annum before tax and compulsory pension contribution. For the subsequent 18 months at CERN, the candidate will have a contract of association and be a member of the CERN Doctoral Students Programme. A travel allowance is available when travel between UiA and CERN is deemed appropriate by supervisors. The candidate will benefit from professional development, a positive and inclusive working environment, modern facilities, and membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.

Applications must be submitted electronically via the provided application link. Required documents include a motivation letter, CV, certificates with grades, master's thesis, references, proof of English proficiency, a one-page research background, and any other relevant documentation. The application and supporting materials must be in English and submitted before the deadline of April 10, 2026.

For further information, contact Associate Professor M. Ali Poursina ([email protected]), Head of Department Paul Ragnar Svennevig ([email protected]), or HR-advisor Heidi Kristensen ([email protected]). Short-listed applicants will be invited for interview, and background checks may be conducted with the applicant’s consent. UiA encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, age, cultural background, disability, or incomplete CV.