1-2 Fully Funded Doctoral Researcher positions in Robotics

The Department of Computing at the University of Turku is looking for 1-2 fixed-term Doctoral Researchers (PhD students) in Robotics. The assignment begins on August 1, 2026, or upon mutual agreement. The positions are fixed-term until April 30, 2028.

Job description

The positions are based in the Turku Intelligent Embedded and Robotic Systems (TIERS) lab in the Robotics and Autonomous Systems unit at the Department of Computing. TIERS is globally connected and focuses on integrating robotics and artificial intelligence across diverse fields. The core focus lies in developing heterogeneous, multifunctional robotic fleets for various applications within industrial and environmental settings. TIERS has a significant external project portfolio at both national and international levels.

The positions are part of the Digital Waters (DIWA) flagship (end date April 30, 2028). DIWA enables a transition towards the digital representation of real-world water systems (Digital Twin). DIWA integrates cutting-edge research in robotics, machine learning, and sustainable engineering to enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of autonomous systems. More information about DIWA can be found at .

Who we are looking for

We invite applications from highly motivated master's degree students with a strong interest in mobile robotics and machine learning. Examples of areas of interest include active perception and understanding of complex and unstructured environments, robot control, and robot learning. We value a background in areas such as robotics, machine learning, computer science or related fields, and eagerness to deploy real-world robotic systems (aerial, ground or surface robotics). Possible application fields include, for example, environmental monitoring, agriculture, forestry as well as search and rescue.

Required qualifications and experience:

Master's degree in computer science, robotics and automation, data science, or closely related field

Excellent wr