Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? As a doctoral student with us, you’ll work closely with leading researchers in a strong, international research environment, with access to advanced lab equipment and excellent funding opportunities. You’ll be offered secure employment, high-quality supervision, and the opportunity to grow, both as a researcher and as a person.
The Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (RAI) group 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 vision is to bridge the gap between theory and reality, and the team has a strong background in field robotics. The application areas we focus on include robotics for mining, aerial inspection of aging infrastructure, multi-robot search and rescue for emergency services, and similar areas. Furthermore, we work with multisensor fusion and multi-robot coordination, which includes environmental perception, decentralization, and the execution of specified missions for multi-robot systems.
Job Responsibilities
You will conduct research with experimental components that will be published in internationally recognized academic journals and presented at major conferences. You will also supervise undergraduate theses, assist with teaching, and provide support in applying for funding for future research projects from research funding agencies/councils, EU projects, or industry.
As a doctoral student, you will work in the field of autonomous robotic systems, and your activities will be linked to national, European, and global R&D projects. The doctoral position will involve focused research activities in design, experimentation, and theory development:
Autonomous navigation of autonomous underwater robots in aquatic environments
- Optimization-based path planning in aquatic environments
- State estimation and sensor fusion for localization and mapping
- Reactive terrain-aware navigation in dynamic and unstructured environments
- Experimental validation on robotic platforms in the field
Qualifications
To be eligible for a doctoral position, you must hold a five-year university degree in computer science, engineering physics, or another relevant field. You must demonstrate strong scientific skills and excellence in experimental research, as well as strong verbal and written communication skills. You will represent the group in various contexts, both in Sweden and abroad; therefore, a very good command of English is 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 hours. Place of employment: Luleå; start date to be agreed upon.
For further information, please contact:
George Nikolakopoulos, professor and department chair, 0920-49 1298, 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, where you should attach a cover letter and a resume/CV listing your academic qualifications, at least two references, and copies of verified degree certificates. Degree certificates must be in Swedish or English. The application must be written in English. Please include the reference number below in your application.
Application deadline: August 31, 2026
Reference number: 3987-2026