Researcher (Postdoc) in Off-Road SLAM and Advanced Perception

Job description

Are you passionate about autonomous systems and advanced perception techniques? We offer an exciting postdoctoral position in the ITC faculty at the University of Twente, in collaboration with Demcon, focusing on off-road SLAM using lidar, camera, and IMU.

Do you have a deep understanding of semantic segmentation, SLAM, sensor fusion (lidar, camera, IMU), embedded programming, and/or real-time computing? Are you ready to push the boundaries of autonomous navigation in challenging environments like forests and off-road terrains? Join our innovative project where simulation training and real hardware testing create innovative solutions.

You will be at the forefront of developing advanced perception systems, using deep learning and classification techniques. You will work with a multidisciplinary team, contributing to fundamental and applied research. Your role will involve designing and implementing algorithms and running simulations. Testing with actual robotic platforms is handled by Demcon.

The project is in parallel with our dedication to teaching perception in our MSc Robotics program and MSc Geoinformation program, offering you also the chance to mentor and inspire the next generation of engineers (all teaching is fully optional). This is a unique opportunity to blend academic research with real-world applications, supported by a leading company in the industry.

After successful employment at the University of Twente, it is possible to discuss a part-time position at Demcon.

Your profile

• A PhD degree in a relevant field
• A consistent track record of research excellence
• Knowledge of and experience in semantic segmentation, sensor fusion, SLAM, and/or real-time computing
• Passion for research and algorithms including Python and C++, e.g. pytorch and ROS
• Excellent communication skills and a strong command of English
• Experience in conducting multidisciplinary research is a plus

Our offer

• An inspiring multidisciplinary, international and academic environment. The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in which internationalization is an important part of the strategic agenda
• A full-time position for 2 years
• Gross monthly salary between € 3.858,- and € 5.278,- per month depending on experience and qualifications (UFO profile Researcher 4)
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%
• Assistant in applying for the 30% ruling (a possible tax deduction for foreigners)
• Excellent support for research and facilities for professional and personal development
• A solid pension scheme
• A total of 41 holiday days per year in case of full-time employment
• Excellent working conditions, an exciting scientific environment, and a lively green campus

Information and application

For more information about the position, please contact Dr. Ville Lehtola (email: v.v.lehtola@utwente.nl). You are also invited to visit our homepage.

For questions about working and living in the Netherlands please consult the official website of the Netherlands Government or the website of the Expat Center East Netherlands.

Please submit your application before 27 September 2024. Your application should include:

• A motivation letter (maximum 2 pages of A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications and motivation to apply for this position
• Curriculum Vitae with a full list of publications, and up to two references with their contact details
• A short description (150 – 250 words) of your PhD research and a copy of your PhD diploma. If you are in the final stage, then a letter from your PhD supervisor, stating the date of PhD defence, is also sufficient

Interviews will be held in October. The position will most likely start on 1.11.2024 (if possible).

About the department

The department of Earth Observation Science deals with earth observation technology for problem solving. Problem solving means primarily identification of solutions for large-volume producers of geo-information and identification of solutions for application domains. The department is involved in teaching Masters of Geo-Information and Masters of Robotics. The department is also part of the Robotics Center of the University of Twente.

About the organisation

The Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC) provides international postgraduate education, research and project services in the field of geo-information science and earth observation. Our mission is capacity development, where we apply, share and facilitate the effective use of geo-information and earth observation knowledge and tools for tackling global wicked problems. Our purpose is to enable our many partners around the world to track and trace the impact – and the shifting causes and frontiers – of today’s global challenges. Our vision is of a world in which researchers, educators, and students collaborate across disciplinary and geographic divides with governmental and non-governmental organisations, institutes, businesses, and local populations to surmount today’s complex global challenges and to contribute to sustainable, fair, and digital societies.