PhD Candidate in Reinforcement Learning and Model Predictive Control (MPC) Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Department of Engineering Cybernetics at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a PhD position in Reinforcement Learning and Model Predictive Control (MPC). NTNU is a leading technical-scientific university located in Trondheim, Norway, with a strong focus on professional education and research. The Department of Engineering Cybernetics (ITK) specializes in decision-making, optimization, control, and artificial intelligence for cyber-physical systems, and is part of the Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering.

This PhD position is integrated within the Norwegian Center on AI for Decision (aiD), a research centre collaborating with over 60 companies and offering broad expertise and strong industrial connections. The research will focus on combining Reinforcement Learning (RL) and Model Predictive Control (MPC), building upon previous work at ITK. Key research areas include verification pathways in RLMPC, risk management, sample efficiency and optimized exploration, and latent state and belief state embedding in RLMPC. The project will involve theoretical and algorithmic development, software implementation, and validation through industrial case studies.

As a PhD candidate, you will complete doctoral education, conduct high-quality research, publish academic and popular science articles, participate actively in the aiD center and NTNU's strategic area Energy, attend international conferences or research stays, and validate research on industrial use-cases. The position offers an exciting mission in society, career guidance, a supportive international environment, working capital, mentor programme, and favorable terms as a member of the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. Free Norwegian language training at a basic level (A2) is available if desired.

Applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree in Automation, Cybernetics, Mathematics, Data Science or equivalent, corresponding to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 credits at master's level. Master students may apply if the degree is completed before starting. A strong academic background is required, with an average grade of B or better on NTNU's grading scale. Good oral and written English skills are mandatory, along with strong skills in mathematics, probabilities, optimization, and programming. Preferred qualifications include experience with AI, probabilistic AI, Machine Learning, Reinforcement Learning, numerical optimization, MPC, and programming (Python, C). Admission to the PhD programme in Engineering Cybernetics within three months of employment is required.

The position is funded by NTNU, with a gross salary of NOK 550,800 per annum for a 3-year employment period. A 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund is deducted from the salary. The appointment is made in accordance with NTNU's guidelines and regulations for PhD degrees. Diversity and inclusion are core values at NTNU, and applications are encouraged from candidates of all backgrounds. Female candidates will be prioritized in case of equal qualifications.

To apply, submit your application and all required attachments electronically via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline of 20 May 2026. Ensure your documents are in English and include transcripts, diplomas, CV, master's thesis, project outline, motivation letter, publications, certificates, and referee contact information. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas. For further information about working at NTNU and the application process, visit the university's website.

Trondheim is a vibrant European city known for its rich cultural scene, technological innovation, and high quality of life. The Norwegian welfare state offers excellent healthcare, education, and equality, making it an attractive location for international researchers and students.