PhD in Reconfigurable Robot Collectives Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

We invite applications for a PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology on reconfigurable robot collectives, within the RE-FLOW project (REconfigurable robot collectives for real-time FLOW control). The project explores how robot collectives can be used to manage crowds in dynamic urban environments in real time, combining computer science, robotics, control theory, and applied physics to build AI-enabled robot collectives as adaptive physical infrastructure.

The PhD candidate will work in close collaboration with the supervisory team: Dr. Tim Ophelders, Dr. Elena Torta, and Prof. Dr. Bettina Speckmann. The research focuses on the algorithmic foundations needed to efficiently reconfigure robot collectives into target configurations, including the execution layer of the RE-FLOW architecture and the development of algorithms for both virtual and physical robots.

The position is based in the TU/e Algorithms cluster, a large international research group focused on algorithms research, and connects to the broader TU/e AI ecosystem and the Eindhoven Artificial Intelligence Systems Institute (EAISI). The project also involves collaboration with the Roboflow group, which spans computer science, electrical engineering, applied physics, and mechanical engineering. This makes the role especially suitable for candidates interested in the intersection of algorithms, AI, robotics, and computational geometry.

The successful candidate will participate in international conferences and workshops, present research results, and assist with algorithms-related teaching as a teaching assistant. The post is offered as full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months and a teaching load of at least 10% overall (maximum 15% per year). The salary is in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P, with a gross monthly base salary between €3,204 and €4,051, plus an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus. Additional benefits include pension contributions, leave provisions, training opportunities, commuting and internet allowances, on-campus facilities, and support for international staff.

Applicants should hold a master’s degree or equivalent in Mathematics or Computer Science, with a strong background in algorithms. The post also requires a strong interest in computational geometry and multi-agent motion planning, practical ability to implement motion-planning algorithms, interest in teaching, and fluent spoken and written English at C1 level. Dutch is not required.

The application deadline for full consideration is 2 October 2026. Applications must be submitted online and should include a cover letter, a CV with publication list, and contact information for up to three references. Incomplete applications may not be considered.