https://www.ltu.se/research/subjects/RoboticsAI?l=en (RAI) at the Department of Systems and Space Engineering at Luleå University of Technology is now seeking a doctoral student to contribute to our growing program. The RAI team conducts fundamental and principled research in all aspects of robotics, with a specific focus on aerial, space, and bio-inspired robotics.
Subject Description
Robotics and Artificial Intelligence aims to develop new robotic systems characterized by advanced autonomy to improve robots’ ability to interact with their environment and humans while performing specific tasks.
Project Description
RAI’s fundamental vision is to bridge the gap between theory and reality, and the team has a strong background in field robotics. Specific application areas we focus on include long-term autonomous missions in large and uncertain environments, semantic mission planning with foundation models, agent-based task decomposition and event-driven replanning, as well as autonomous, semantically aware inspection of complex infrastructure. The RAI team is actively involved in several European and national R&D&I projects.
Job Responsibilities
As a doctoral student, you will conduct research with significant theoretical and experimental components to be published in peer-reviewed, internationally recognized journals and presented at major conferences. The position includes supervising undergraduate theses and providing support in applying for funding from research funding agencies/councils, the EU’s Framework Programs, or industry. The position may also include teaching assistance, seminars, and presentations.
You will work in the field of robot autonomy, and all activities will be linked to national, European, and global R&D projects. The doctoral position will involve intensive research activities in design, experimentation, and theoretical development.
Research areas:
- Long-term autonomy in uncertain environments
- a. Agent-based planning and reasoning
- - Semantic task planning using foundation models
- - Task decomposition based on foundation models
- - Event-driven task replanning
- b. Autonomous inspection planning
- - Semantically aware route planning
- - Multi-robot systems in large and degraded environments
Qualifications
To be eligible for this position, you must hold a master’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or another relevant field. Proficiency in C++, Python, and ROS 2 is required. Strong scientific skills with proven proficiency in experimental research, as well as excellent communication skills, are a plus. You will represent the group in various contexts, both in Sweden and abroad; therefore, excellent English skills are required.
For further information on specific doctoral programs, see http://www.ltu.se/research/Utbildning-pa-forskarniva/Studieplaner/Allmanna-studieplaner-Teknisk-fakultetsnamnd
Information
Employment as a doctoral student is limited to 4 years; teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full-time employment. The position is based in Luleå, and the start date is negotiable.
For further information, please contact:
George Nikolakopoulos, Professor and Department Chair, 0920-49 1298 mailto:geonik@ltu.se
Union representative:
SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037 mailto:diana.chroneer@ltu.se
OFR-S Marika Vesterberg, 0920-49 1721 mailto:marika.vesterberg@ltu.se
Application
We prefer that you apply for the position using the application button below. Your application must include a resume with a complete description of your academic qualifications, a cover letter, at least two references who can provide recommendations, and copies of verified high school and university diplomas. Degree certificates must be in Swedish or English. The application must be written in Swedish or English. Please include the reference number below in your application.
Application deadline: October 1, 2026
Reference number: 4647-2026