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PhD position in legged robot locomotion on natural soft terrain

  • //applyindex.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/belgium.png Belgium
  • University/Institute Name KU Leuven
  • Attendance Type On Campus (Full Time)
  • Position DurationSee Position Description
  • Position Funding Type PhD Research Funding
  • Application deadlineExpired
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Position Details (PhD Research Project)

KU Leuven is Belgium's largest university. We are a major higher education and research institution and rank amongst the top 100 universities worldwide.
KU Leuven is located in the heart of Europe, in Leuven, which is 15min away from Brussels by train.
This project will be hosted in the Mechanical Engineering department in the Robotics, Automation, and Mechatronics unit
https://www.mech.kuleuven.be/en/ram
Website unit

Project

This project aims to develop a novel, legged bipedal robot that will learn to walk on soft and natural ground, such as sand and gravel. The controller design will include knowledge of the type of ground the robot walks over, and how the substrate behaves. Previous robot controllers were programmed merely for walking on rigid ground such as laboratory floor. With an advanced geomechanics model describing the properties of natural ground, the project aims to improve the legged robot's performance; better energy efficiency, higher dynamics, and a wider usage of its available controller options.

Profile

The successful candidate must have a Master's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. Fluency in at least one common computer programming language is required. English fluency is expected. The candidate must demonstrate their ability and aptitude for teaching assistance work, with a degree or transcripts of courses relevant to Mechanical Engineering and/or Computer Science. Any background and/or hands-on experience in mechanical design and control is an advantage.

Offer

The position is fully funded.
The position becomes available pending formal administrative approval, requiring successful enrollment in the university PhD program.
After a one-year evaluation period, the contract can be extended to four years.
We provide access to state-of-the-art robotic and manufacturing facilities.

Prof Badri-Sproewitz, info page KUL

Interested?

Please submit through the application tool (!) as a single PDF file
* single-page cover letter explaining your specific (!) motivation for this PhD research position
* curriculum vitae
* list of publications (if applicable)

* list of completed courses related to robotics, mechatronics
* online courses (if applicable)

* link to own gitlab repository (if applicable)

* your earliest availability
In case of questions concerning the application, feel free to contact me via email ([emailprotected]).
The position remains open until filled. Priority will be given to applications received by October 31.

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

Research Areas & Fields of Study involved in the position

Position Start Date

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