[jobs] PhD position in Interactive Robot Learning (VU Amsterdam)
Kim Baraka
Open PhD position at VU Amsterdam (in collaboration with University of Amsterdam and the Hybrid Intelligence Center) on the topic of interactive robot learning.
The candidate will be:
a) developing novel interactive learning algorithms based on state-of-the-art reinforcement learning techniques, targeting interactive robots and with a focus on assistive perception and collaborative manipulation, partially in the context of robot-assisted
surgery.
b) conducting controlled user studies in simulation and in situ to test the developed algorithms in real interactions with humans. Most of the experimental work will be conducted on the Franka Emika robot.
c) extensively collaborating with the supervisory team and the relevant members of the consortium at large.
d) disseminating research outcomes through conference and journal publications, as well as workshops at relevant venues such as HRI, CoRL, IROS, ICRA, ICML, AAMAS, …
We are looking for candidates with:
- Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Computer Science, or related fields
- Strong knowledge in machine learning (ideally, prior experience with reinforcement learning)
- Excellent programming and algorithm development skills
- Prior experience working with robotic platforms, at least in simulation
- Willingness to step outside of their own discipline to solve complex problems that cut across bodies of knowledge in different fields
- Experience conducting user studies and analyzing human data (preferred)
- A good team spirit and willingness to collaborate across institutions and be actively involved in the larger research consortium
The position is positioned within the national Hybrid Intelligence Center, a pioneering Dutch project conducting groundbreaking human-centered AI research.
Deadline to apply: June 15, 2025.
More details and application instructions at https://workingat.vu.nl/vacancies/phd-position-on-interactive-robot-learning-amsterdam-1171056
Kim Baraka (he/they)
Assistant Professor (Social AI Group,
VU Amsterdam)
Dance Artist