Fully Funded PhD in Field Robotics at NTNU, Norway – 2026

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is offering an exciting opportunity for students interested in pursuing a PhD in Field Robotics. This is a fully funded position within the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, with a strong focus on advanced robotics and artificial intelligence.

If you are interested in cutting-edge technologies such as AI-powered underwater robots, this PhD position could be an important step toward an academic and professional career in robotics and autonomous systems. The application deadline for this opportunity is 30 April 2026.

PhD Programme Overview

This is a three-year, full-time research position. The selected candidate will be enrolled in NTNU’s doctoral programme and will work in an innovative and interdisciplinary research environment.

• University: Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
• Field: Field Robotics
• Location: Trondheim, Norway
• Duration: 3 years
• Salary: NOK 550,800 per year
• Application Deadline: 30 April 2026

The research will be supervised by Professor Eelke Kelasidi, who leads the Field Robotics Laboratory at NTNU.

Main Research Focus

The main objective of this PhD project is to develop intelligent underwater robotic systems capable of operating in complex and challenging real-world environments.

Such systems can have applications in areas including offshore energy, aquaculture, and environmental monitoring.

Key Research Areas

The research may focus on:

• Learning-based robotic manipulation using Imitation Learning (IL) and Reinforcement Learning (RL)
• Developing advanced underwater grasping and manipulation techniques
• Using Large Language Models (LLMs) for planning and decision-making
• Improving perception, control, and interaction capabilities in autonomous robots

The overall goal is to develop robots capable of performing tasks such as inspection, maintenance, and repair in challenging underwater environments.

Research Environment

This PhD position is part of the Norwegian Centre for Embodied AI, which focuses on how intelligent systems interact with the physical world.

The initiative brings together universities, industry partners, and international research organizations.

As a PhD candidate, you may have access to:

• Advanced robotics laboratories
• Modern research facilities
• Real-world testing environments
• International research collaboration opportunities

This research environment can provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in robotics and artificial intelligence.

Main Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, your main responsibilities may include:

• Conducting high-quality research in robotics and artificial intelligence
• Designing and testing robotic systems
• Publishing research papers in academic journals and conferences
• Collaborating with international research teams
• Assisting with the supervision of master’s students

The position is designed to help candidates develop strong research, analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants are expected to meet the requirements specified for the position.

Required Qualifications

• A master’s degree in Robotics, Control Engineering, or a related field
• Strong academic performance, typically equivalent to a B grade or higher

Preferred Skills

The following skills and experience can be beneficial:

• Knowledge of robotics, machine learning, or autonomous systems
• Programming experience in C++ and Python
• Familiarity with ROS, computer vision, or sensor fusion
• Practical experience working with robotic systems

Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with other researchers and team members.

Salary and Benefits

The PhD position provides a competitive salary along with several employment and professional development benefits.

Annual Salary

• NOK 550,800 per year

Additional benefits may include:

• Pension and social benefits according to Norwegian public-sector regulations
• Access to professional development programmes
• Career guidance and mentoring
• Language training, where required
• A collaborative international research environment

These benefits can support a productive research experience while living and working in Norway.

Application Requirements

Applicants are expected to submit a complete application package. The required documents include:

• Updated CV or resume
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Master’s thesis or a draft version, if applicable
• Research project proposal or outline of up to 4 pages
• Motivation letter
• At least two references
• Relevant publications or other supporting documents, if available

Applicants should ensure that all documents are clear, complete, and properly prepared before submission.

How to Apply?

To apply for this PhD position, follow these general steps:

1. Carefully prepare all required documents.
2. Prepare a clear research proposal related to the project.
3. Write a strong motivation letter explaining your academic background and research interests.
4. Submit your application through the official NTNU recruitment portal.
5. Upload all required supporting documents.
6. Review the application carefully before submitting it.
7. Submit the complete application before the deadline.

Applicants should check the official NTNU vacancy information for the latest requirements and submission instructions.

Incomplete or late applications may not be considered.

Why Consider This PhD Opportunity?

This PhD position provides an opportunity to work on advanced robotics technologies with potential real-world applications.

By joining NTNU, candidates can:

• Gain research experience in an advanced academic environment
• Work on innovative AI and robotics projects
• Develop expertise in autonomous robotic systems
• Collaborate with international researchers and experts
• Work with technologies such as machine learning, robotics, and underwater systems
• Build a strong academic and professional profile
• Develop experience in scientific publication and research

The research focus on underwater robotics also connects academic research with practical applications in areas such as offshore energy, aquaculture, inspection, maintenance, and environmental monitoring.

About NTNU

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is a major university in Norway with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and research.

The university’s research activities cover a wide range of technological and scientific disciplines, making it a relevant environment for candidates interested in robotics, artificial intelligence, engineering, and autonomous systems.

Career Opportunities After a PhD in Robotics

A PhD in robotics and artificial intelligence can provide research experience that may be relevant to several career areas, including:

• Robotics Research
• Artificial Intelligence
• Autonomous Systems
• Machine Learning
• Control Engineering
• Computer Vision
• Industrial Robotics
• Underwater Robotics
• Research and Development
• Robotics Software Engineering
• Academic Research
• Technology Innovation

Candidates can potentially pursue careers in universities, research institutes, technology companies, engineering organizations, and research and development departments.

Important Skills for Future Robotics Researchers

Students interested in this field can strengthen their background in:

• Python
• C++
• ROS
• Machine Learning
• Deep Learning
• Reinforcement Learning
• Computer Vision
• Sensor Fusion
• Robot Operating Systems
• Control Systems
• Motion Planning
• Autonomous Navigation
• Robotic Manipulation

Practical experience with robotic hardware and simulation platforms can also be valuable.

Living and Studying in Norway

Norway offers an international academic environment and extensive research infrastructure. Trondheim is an important university and technology city and hosts NTNU’s main academic environment.

International PhD candidates should research practical matters such as:

• Residence requirements
• Cost of living
• Housing
• Health insurance
• Taxation
• University registration
• Travel requirements

Applicants should obtain current information directly from official Norwegian and NTNU sources because requirements can change.

Final Thoughts

The fully funded PhD in Field Robotics at NTNU provides an opportunity for qualified candidates to conduct research in advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and underwater robotic technologies.

The project focuses on developing intelligent robots capable of operating in challenging environments and potentially supporting applications in offshore energy, aquaculture, environmental monitoring, inspection, maintenance, and repair.

Candidates with a master’s degree in robotics, control engineering, or a related discipline, along with relevant technical skills in areas such as C++, Python, ROS, machine learning, computer vision, or sensor fusion, may find the research area relevant to their academic interests.

Applicants should carefully review the official vacancy and NTNU recruitment portal for the latest eligibility requirements, application instructions, salary information, and deadline before submitting an application.

Application Link

Apply Here:
https://www.unipositions.com/go/ntnu-opens-phd-position-in-field-robotics