PhD Research Fellow in Learning-based Control of Autonomous Robot Manipulation University of Agder (UiA) in Norway

University of Agder (UiA) is offering a fixed-term, full-time PhD Research Fellow position in learning-based control of autonomous robot manipulation at the Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Engineering Sciences, with affiliation to the Robotics and Automation research group. The position is based at Campus Grimstad in Norway and runs for three years.

The project sits at the intersection of control theory, robotics, reinforcement learning, machine learning, and perception. The successful candidate will investigate new algorithms and methods for robust and adaptive robotic manipulation, including data-driven and learning-based control, advanced visual perception, reliable object detection, scene understanding, and interaction in challenging or adverse environments. A major application goal is to improve the autonomy, robustness, and precision of robotic manipulation for demanding tasks such as offshore exploration, maintenance, and repair.

Research activities include testing and validation on real robotic platforms at Motion Lab, contribution to reports and scientific publications, and dissemination at the European level. The role also includes opportunities for research visits to partner universities in Japan, Canada, and the USA through the UTFORSK NCUJ-SCORE project.

Applicants must hold a master’s degree in mechatronics, control systems, robotics, or a closely related field, obtained within the last five years. Strong preparation in advanced control theory, robotics, or mechatronics is expected, and experience with machine learning is an advantage. UiA also specifies grade requirements for previous degrees and requires English proficiency. International applicants who are not exempt under NOKUT rules must document English skills with TOEFL or IELTS results at the stated minimum levels. Admission to UiA’s PhD programme in the Faculty of Engineering and Science is required before appointment.

Desired qualifications include research or publication experience, a strong background in control, robotics, and machine learning, and programming ability in Matlab, Python, C/C++, and ROS. Personal suitability, teamwork, independence, goal-oriented work, concentration, and attention to detail will be considered in the selection process.

The position offers professional development in a socially impactful organisation, a positive and inclusive work environment, modern facilities, welfare schemes, and membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. The salary is stated as NOK 550,800 gross per year under the Norwegian state salary scale, plus pension contributions.

Application deadline: 2026-10-28. Applications must be submitted electronically and include transcripts and diplomas, a thesis summary, CV and publication list, a motivation letter and brief project description, up to five selected academic articles, and two referees. All documentation must be complete and in English or a Scandinavian language.