The Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a PhD Candidate position focused on learning engineering from blueprints and digital artefacts of past technical creations. NTNU is a leading technical-scientific university with a strong commitment to professional education and research, headquartered in Trondheim, Norway.

This research opportunity centers on developing systematic approaches to integrate knowledge across the product lifecycle, leveraging standards and best practices from various engineering disciplines. The project aims to enable companies to reuse and build upon their previous product design knowledge, training new generations of engineers and fostering sustainable innovation. Technical artefacts such as CAD drawings, 3D models, and simulation results (FEM, CFD) are increasingly available in digital formats, yet are rarely reused after their initial purpose. The PhD research will explore methodologies for building and integrating machine learning solutions to extract and utilize this knowledge, contributing to a holistic view of product lifecycle management and efficient use of digital artefacts.

The successful candidate will join the Knowledge-based Engineering and Knowledge-driven Systems research group, working under the supervision of Associate Professor Andrei Lobov. Duties include completing doctoral education, contributing to research and development, disseminating results in academic and popular science forums, and participating actively in the department's collaborative environment.

Applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree (product/industrial design, production engineering, industrial ICT, or industrial engineering) equivalent to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 credits at master's level. Master students graduating in spring 2026 may apply, provided the degree is completed before starting. A strong academic record (B or better on NTNU's grading scale), basic knowledge of CAD/CAM/CAE, proficiency in mathematics and programming, and excellent English skills are required. Preferred qualifications include strong programming skills (Python), experience with semantic modeling, knowledge representation, automated reasoning, knowledge-based engineering, system engineering, AI frameworks, industrial protocols, and information systems. Skills in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language are advantageous. Personal qualities such as independence, collaboration, motivation, and adaptability are highly valued.

The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, favorable pension fund membership, free basic Norwegian language training, working capital for project implementation, and access to employee benefits. The employment period is three years, and admission to the PhD programme in Engineering is required within three months of the contract start date. The work environment is open, inclusive, and international, with a strong focus on diversity and equality.

Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no by 22nd March 2026. Required documents include transcripts, diplomas, CV, master's thesis or draft, project outline, motivation letter, publications, certificates, and contact information for three referees. All documents must be in English. If invited to interview, certified copies of certificates and diplomas must be provided.

NTNU is committed to responsible research assessment and recognizes a wide range of academic contributions. The university offers a vibrant academic and cultural environment in Trondheim, with excellent welfare, education, and family life opportunities.