PhD on Bimanual Robotic Manipulation in the Open World Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

This PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology focuses on advancing bimanual robotic manipulation in open-world environments. The project aims to develop next-generation manipulators capable of performing complex pick-and-place and handling tasks, with applications in manufacturing, logistics, aviation, and construction. The research will leverage cutting-edge machine learning, robot dynamics, control theory, advanced programming, and experimental validation to create robust, contact-rich strategies for manipulating parcels, bags, and clothes in cluttered and semi-structured environments.

Key objectives include developing vision-action models for adaptive manipulation, collecting and sharing experimental data according to FAIR principles, validating physics engines (such as Isaac Sim, MuJoCo, Algoryx Dynamics) against real experiments, and proposing control strategies that exploit natural robot-environment contact dynamics. Experimental work will be conducted on various robotic platforms within the lab, with progress assessed against the state of the art and results showcased to research and industrial partners.

The position is embedded in the Robotics section (RBT) of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, with close collaborations across Dynamics and Control (D&C), Control Systems Technology (CST), Mathematics and Computer Science (M&CS), and Electrical Engineering (EE) departments. This interdisciplinary environment provides expertise in machine learning, computer vision, knowledge representation, and robot control.

Applicants should have a master’s degree in a relevant field (mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, control engineering, computer science, or related disciplines), strong background in robot dynamics, machine learning, and control theory, and demonstrated programming skills in Python and C/C++. Experience with machine learning frameworks and physical experiments on robots is required. Candidates should be motivated to develop teaching skills and mentor junior students, and possess proficiency in English (C1 level or higher).

Employment is full-time for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. The position includes teaching tasks (minimum 10% of employment), salary in scale P (€3,059–€3,881/month), year-end bonus (8.3%), annual vacation pay (8%), pension scheme, paid pregnancy/maternity leave, partially paid parental leave, commuting and home working allowances, tax compensation scheme (30% facility) for international candidates, access to sports facilities, technical infrastructure, and high-quality training programs.

Eindhoven University of Technology is a leading international institution located in Brainport Eindhoven, a world-leading tech region. The Department of Mechanical Engineering conducts research aligned with high-tech industry interests, aiming to produce scientifically educated and application-driven engineers. The university offers a vibrant academic community and excellent support for personal and professional development.

To apply, submit a complete application online including a cover letter, CV with publications and references, MSc thesis report, description of past research projects, and English language test results if applicable. The vacancy remains open until filled, with priority given to complete applications. For scientific inquiries, contact Associate Professor Alessandro Saccon ([email protected]). For HR questions, contact [email protected].