PhD: Robotics & Machine Learning: Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, invites applications for up to two fully funded PhD positions in Robotics and Machine Learning for Autonomous Manipulation under the prestigious WASP (Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems and Software Program). These positions offer a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge theoretical and applied research combining robot learning, manipulation, control, and AI, within a vibrant interdisciplinary and international research environment.
PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Robotics & Machine Learning for Autonomous Manipulation
📌 Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Student |
| Research Area | Robotics, Machine Learning, Autonomous Manipulation |
| Location | Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden |
| Funding | Fully funded through WASP (Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems and Software Program) |
| Duration | 4 years (extendable to 5 years with teaching duties) |
| Monthly Salary | 34,550 SEK (starting May 25, 2025) |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 August 2025 (Rolling review process, early applications encouraged) |
| Supervisors | Assoc. Prof. Yasemin Bekiroglu & Assoc. Prof. Changfu Zou |
🧪 Research Focus
The PhD project focuses on enabling autonomous mobile robots to perform complex manipulation tasks using vision, touch, and continuous learning. Goals include:
- Real-world robotic manipulation in dynamic, human-centric environments
- Combining dexterity with high-level planning
- Rich interaction with sensory data and autonomous learning
- Close collaboration with academia and industry partners
🏫 Research Environment
You will join the Automatic Control Group (35+ researchers) within the Systems and Control Division, the largest unit in the Department of Electrical Engineering at Chalmers. The group is actively engaged in national and international collaborations.
✅ Eligibility / Qualifications
- Educational Background (Master’s degree or 4-year Bachelor’s for non-Swedish degrees) in:
- Robotics
- Computer Science
- Electrical/Computer Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Applied Mathematics/Physics
- Statistics and Optimization
- Required Skills:
- Strong academic record in robotics, machine learning, and control
- Proficient in C/C++ and Python; experience with ROS
- Practical skills in hardware/simulation-based robot systems
- Fluency in written and spoken English
- Preferred: Prior experience in robot learning research
💼 Job Description
- Conduct both theoretical and experimental research in robot learning and control
- Develop autonomous manipulation systems that improve through experience
- Participate in WASP Graduate School, which includes seminars, courses, and industry interaction
- Possible teaching responsibilities (up to 20%)
🌐 About WASP
The Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems and Software Program (WASP) is Sweden’s largest research initiative. It fosters excellent research in AI and robotics, aiming to build a strong national and international professional network. For more info: WASP Sweden
📎 How to Apply
Application Materials (in English, PDF format):
- CV
- Personal letter including:
- Brief self-introduction
- Motivation for applying
- Bachelor’s and/or Master’s thesis + academic transcripts
Important:
- No email submissions. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Apply using the form at the bottom of the official Chalmers job page.
- References will be requested after the interview.
📅 Deadline
Final deadline: 24 August 2025
Reviewing starts immediately – early applications are strongly encouraged!
📧 Contact for Queries
- Assoc. Prof. Yasemin Bekiroglu: yaseminb@chalmers.se
- Assoc. Prof. Changfu Zou: changfu.zou@chalmers.se
Shape the future of autonomous systems – Apply now and be part of Sweden’s largest AI initiative!
