PhD on Collective Decision-Making Algorithms for Autonomous Driving

Are you passionate about developing AI-driven algorithms that ensure safe, ethical, and efficient autonomous driving in complex traffic environments?

Information
Are you eager to tackle the scientific challenges of designing advanced collective decision-making algorithms for autonomous vehicles? In this PhD position, you will contribute to pioneering research within the AIGGREGATE project at the control systems group in the electrical engineering department. You will focus on creating model predictive control algorithms that are provably safe for autonomous driving. Your work will involve integrating cutting-edge AI techniques with control theory to develop algorithms capable of making proactive, human-centric decisions.

These algorithms will leverage collective and predictive state awareness to safely navigate complex scenarios involving both connected and non-connected road users. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of mobility by addressing challenges such as minimizing unintended harm, preventing gridlocks, and enhancing user acceptance of autonomous systems. You will be part of a collaborative environment that values inclusivity and innovation, working alongside experts in control theory, autonomous systems and formal methods.

As this project spans multiple disciplines, candidates should have experience with or a strong interest in mastering critical concepts from both control engineering and computer science. The work will involve applying advanced control methods such as model predictive control and control barrier functions, alongside computer science techniques including formal specifications, rigorous testing, and formal verification.

If you are driven by the opportunity to develop intelligent, trustworthy decision-making systems that make a tangible real-world impact, we warmly invite you to apply and join our innovative research team.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 2,901 max. € 3,707).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager dr. Sofie Haesaert (s.haesaert@tue.nl).

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services Flux (hrservices.flux@tue.nl).

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