PhD Position in Robotics, AI, and Drone Operations for Agriculture Norwegian University of Life Sciences in Norway

A PhD position is available at the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Technology Management, Faculty of Science and Technology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), focusing on robotics, automation, and sensing for next-generation drone operations in agriculture. The position is for three years, starting 1st September 2026, and is embedded within the robotics group at NMBU, which specializes in mobile robotics for agriculture and manufacturing/food processing. This PhD will target the design, implementation, and field deployment of autonomous drone solutions for agricultural applications, including crop spraying, monitoring, and precision farming.

The position offers flexibility for the candidate to define a focused research topic within autonomy, robotics, and agricultural drones. Key research directions include increasing operational autonomy of agricultural drones, multimodal sensing and precision control, and automation technologies to improve safety and reduce human exposure. The research aims to address current limitations in endurance, efficiency, scalability, and safety, enabling drones to operate more effectively across large agricultural areas with reduced manual intervention.

Main tasks involve defining a research topic, formulating use-cases, developing hardware/software components, collecting and curating datasets, designing and executing experiments, analyzing outcomes, publishing scientific papers, and completing mandatory PhD coursework. The candidate will actively participate in the research group’s activities and contribute to international journals and conferences in robotics, autonomous systems, and precision agriculture.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree or equivalent in Robotics, Mechatronics, Computer Science, Control Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related discipline. Foreign degrees must meet NMBU’s PhD admission criteria. Candidates submitting their MSc thesis by 30 June 2026 may be considered. Both the average grade point and the Master’s thesis must be B or better in the Norwegian system. Proficiency in written and oral English is required. Documented programming experience relevant to autonomous systems, robotics, or data-driven modelling is necessary. Demonstrable competence in at least one key area related to the position is required. Experience with modelling and simulation tools for robotics, UAVs, or autonomous systems is expected. High personal motivation, strong work ethic, and suitability for independent research are essential. Advantageous qualifications include experience with UAVs, autonomous robots, robotic manipulation systems, ROS/ROS2, optimization techniques, 3D sensing, perception, computer vision, sensor fusion, proficiency in Python, C++, or C#, embedded systems, microcontrollers, edge AI, and prior academic writing or publications.

The position offers a salary as PhD Research Fellow, position code 1017, 550,800 NOK per year, with the possibility of a higher salary for exceptionally qualified candidates. The appointment is full-time and fixed-term for three years. Admission to the PhD program is a prerequisite for appointment. The candidate is expected to be physically present at NMBU daily. Employment is in accordance with Norwegian university regulations and relevant acts.

To apply, submit your application electronically via the 'Apply for this job' link, register an account, and complete the online application form. Attach a motivation letter, CV, certified copies of academic diplomas and certificates, diploma supplements, documentation of English proficiency, and any additional relevant documents. Interviews will be arranged for shortlisted candidates. The application deadline is 18th May 2026.

The Faculty of Science and Technology (REALTEK) at NMBU is committed to research-based knowledge and education across a broad spectrum of disciplines, including robotics, data science, mechanics, process engineering, construction, architecture, industrial economics, environmental physics, renewable energy, geomatics, water and environmental engineering, applied mathematics, and teacher education in natural sciences. The workplace is located in Ås, 30 km from Oslo.

NMBU is dedicated to excellent research, education, dissemination, and innovation, with a strong interdisciplinary environment and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, disability, cultural background, or employment history. The university provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

For further information, contact Professor Ibrahim Abdelfattah Abdelhameed at [email protected]. More details about NMBU can be found at www.nmbu.no.