PostDoc and Research Assistant Positions in Simulation-based Robot Learning Department of Computer Science

The Department of Computer Science invites applications for multiple research positions at both postdoctoral level (for PhD holders) and research assistant level (for MSc graduates). The successful candidates will engage in developing novel robot automation and perception techniques using simulation and machine learning methods, focusing on data-driven industrial manipulation and robot colonoscopy respectively.

The positions are hosted by the IMAGE section at the Department of Computer Science, with research themes spanning computer simulation, robotics, biomedical imaging, computer vision, geometry and numerical methods. The projects are part of two larger innovation and EU Horizon consortiums, networking academic researchers and industrial professionals inside and outside Denmark. The other partners include world-class tech leaders on the frontiers of collaborative robots, biomedical manufacturing and automation solution, who will be sharing best practices and staying abreast of the latest developments in the scope of the projects.

For PostDoc applicants

The PostDoc will play a central and enabling role in developing smart grasping strategies based on vision data and simulation. This includes technical contributions of implementing machine learning methods for motion and gripping control, and demonstrating the system on a cobot and grippers supported by leading vacuum suction technologies. The role also includes facilitating collaborations and knowledge exchange with industrial partners, to ensure results that are meaningful and impactful to industrial practice. For the career development, the PostDoc will receive mentorship on carrying through independent research, contribute to an active research evironment and obtain experience with teaching or other types of dissemination. 

For Research Assistant applicants

The research assistant working for the smart grasping project will mainly contribute to similar technical responsibilities as above, under the supervision of senior researchers. The research asistant working for the robot colonoscopy project will support relevant resesarch topics, possibly include 3D modelling, simulation and soft robot control. The research environment provides active support and training for qualified candidates seeking a PhD study after the position, and has a trackrecord of landing previous students in top programs.

Required Qualifications:

• MSc/PhD degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Biomedical/Electronic/ Mechanical/Automation Engineering, Applied Mathematics/Physics.
• Highly motivated to build machine learning models and algorithms for real world data/demonstratable results on real robot systems.
• Proficiency and experience in C++/Python for building and maintaining software packages with libraries like PyTorch, JAX, Warp, Taichi, ROS etc.
• Excellent communication skills and motivated to work in interdisciplinary research environments.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Research experience on grasping and manipulation/3D vision and generative models/robot simulation/reinforcement learning 
• Experience in publishing or contributing to peer-reviewed research
• Familiarity with relevant software such as MuJoCo/Isaac Sim/SOFA/Kaolin

Further information on the Department is linked at https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/. Inquiries about the positions can be made to kenny@di.ku.dk and hayi@di.ku.dk.

The positions are open from 15-12-2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Currently, the monthly salary is around 38,700 DKK/approx. 5,100 EUR (April 2025 level) for PostDocs, and 29,300 DKK/approx. 3,900 EUR (Apr 2025 level) for research assistants. Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated. The employer will pay an additional 18,07% to your pension fund.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Certified copy of original all relevant diplomas and transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in other language than English or Danish
• Motivation letter or research plan – max 1-2 pages
• Complete publication list if applies

The deadline for applications is 30-09-2025, 23:59 GMT +2.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

Interviews will be expected to be held from the 30-10-2025.