The Intelligent Vehicles (IV) group at TU Delft (*) is seeking a PhD candidate with an interest in performing cutting edge research in the area of environment perception for self-driving vehicles. This PhD position is part of a new EU project EVENTS (ReliablE in-Vehicle pErception and decisioN-making in complex environmenTal conditionS) containing several automotive industry and research partners across Europe.

The PhD position addresses multi-modal environment perception (i.e. vision, radar, LiDAR sensing) in urban traffic scenarios, with a focus on Vulnerable Road Users (pedestrian, cyclists and other riders). Several interesting research directions are possible - the use of machine learning / deep learning techniques is omnipresent. One possible direction addresses "data efficiency" and the shortcomings of current supervised learning approaches, which require lots of (costly manually) annotated training data. Unsupervised/semi/self-supervised learning, auto-annotation, and domain adaptation techniques are avenues of interest. Other possible directions involve novel models for 3D semantic scene analysis and road user motion prediction.

* Further information about the IV group is available at

Website: intelligent-vehicles.org

YouTube: IntelligentVehiclesatTUDelft

Applicants should have (or soon expect) a Master Degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. Computer Science, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics). They should have a strong academic record with a solid background in computation, sensor processing (e.g. computer vision), machine learning and AI. Good programming skills are expected, preferably in C++ and/or Python. Knowledge of deep-learning frameworks (TensorFlow/PyTorch/Keras/Caffe) and OpenCV/ROS/CUDA is a plus. A certain affinity towards turning complex concepts into real-world practice (i.e. vehicle prototype) is desired. Applicant(s) are expected to be able to act independently as well as to collaborate effectively with members of a larger team. Good English skills are required.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2443 per month in the first year to € 3122 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

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Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

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