PhD Stipend in Safe Learning-Based Control for Autonomous Robots in Dynamic Environments Aalborg University in Denmark

The Department of Electronic Systems at Aalborg University invites applications for a PhD stipend focused on Safe Learning-Based Control for Autonomous Robots in Dynamic Environments. This position is part of the Electrical and Electronic Engineering study programme and is based in Aalborg at the Automation and Control Section. Aalborg University is internationally recognised for its high academic quality and societal impact, particularly in electronic engineering, robotics, AI, and control systems.

The department employs over 200 staff, including about 90 PhD students, and maintains a diverse, international environment. Research at the department spans communication, networks, control systems, AI, sound, cyber security, and robotics, with strong collaborations with industrial partners worldwide. The Advanced Robotics & AI research group advances self-learning autonomous robotic systems for reliable operation in extreme environments, strengthening robotic autonomy and resilience.

This PhD project aims to develop novel strategies for safe and adaptive navigation of autonomous mobile robots in dynamic human environments. The central goal is to enable robots to anticipate, interpret, and respond to human movement and interactions, improving safety and pedestrian comfort in complex crowd scenarios. The research integrates online learning and adaptation with formal safety guarantees, moving beyond rule-based behaviours. The project will deliver theoretical, algorithmic, and real-time implementation frameworks for on-the-fly autonomy in crowds, adapting to unpredictable human interactions and providing guarantees for safety, performance, and comfort. Methods will be implemented and evaluated in robot simulation environments (such as ROS/Gazebo, Isaac Sim) and validated through proof-of-concept experiments using sensorised mobile robotic platforms.

The PhD candidate will conduct research in real-time safe learning and control of autonomous robotic systems, contribute to research question formulation, plan and adapt the research plan, and publish results in top-tier journals and conferences. The candidate will work both independently and collaboratively in an international research environment, engaging with public and private stakeholders.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Control Theory, Computer Science, or a closely related field, with a solid background in robotics, autonomous systems, and/or control theory. Programming skills in Python and/or C++ and experience with robotics software frameworks (ROS/ROS 2) are required. Excellent English communication skills are essential. Experience with safety-critical systems, multi-agent autonomy, learning-based/data-driven/robust/adaptive control under uncertainty, strong mathematical foundations, hands-on robotics experiments, and prior publications in robotics or control venues are advantageous.

PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years and require enrollment at the Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design. Salary and terms of employment follow the Danish AC collective agreement. The department offers a collaborative and supportive research environment, with access to unique research infrastructure and lab facilities.

To apply, submit your application via Aalborg University’s recruitment system, including your application letter, CV, diplomas, master’s thesis or relevant publications, and 1-2 letters of recommendation (optional). The university values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds. For questions, contact Associate Professor Shahab Heshmati-Alamdari at [email protected].

Join Aalborg University and help shape the future of safe autonomous systems through world-class research and innovation.