PhD Position in Safe Learning-Based Control for Autonomous Robots in Dynamic Environments
Aalborg University invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Safe Learning-Based Control for Autonomous Robots in Dynamic Environments. The position is based at the Department of Electronic Systems, within the Automation and Control Section, and is part of the Advanced Robotics & AI research group. The research focuses on developing next-generation learning-based decision-making and control methods for autonomous robots, emphasizing safety guarantees and real-world deployment in dynamic, crowded environments.
The project aims to advance the state of the art in trustworthy robotic systems by integrating machine learning, control theory, and safe autonomy. The central objective is to enable robots to anticipate, interpret, and respond to human movement and interactions, improving both safety and pedestrian comfort in complex crowd scenarios. The research will move beyond rule-based behaviors by combining online learning and adaptation with formal safety guarantees, delivering a theoretical, algorithmic, and real-time implementation framework for on-the-fly autonomy in crowds.
Key research tasks include developing methods that adapt to unpredictable human interactions, providing guarantees for safety, performance, and comfort, and implementing and evaluating these methods in simulation environments (such as ROS/Gazebo, Isaac Sim) and through proof-of-concept experiments using sensorized mobile robotic platforms. The PhD candidate will actively contribute to research planning, implementation, and dissemination of results in top-tier international venues.
Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Control Theory, Computer Science, or a closely related field, with a strong background in robotics, autonomous systems, and/or control theory. Proficiency in Python and/or C++ and experience with robotics software frameworks (e.g., ROS/ROS 2) are required. Excellent English communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international environment are essential. Experience with safety-critical systems, multi-agent autonomy, learning-based or adaptive control, strong mathematical foundations, hands-on robotics experiments, and prior publications in robotics or control are considered advantageous.
The position is fully funded for three years, with salary and terms of employment in accordance with Danish university standards. The successful candidate will be enrolled at the Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design. The application must include a statement of motivation, CV, diplomas, master’s thesis or relevant publications, and optional recommendation letters. Applications are to be submitted via Aalborg University’s recruitment system by February 1, 2026.
For further information, contact Associate Professor Shahab Heshmati-Alamdari ([email protected]). More details and the application portal can be found on the official vacancy page.
