We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher in Embodied Learning for Underwater Robotics for a fixed-term position at the School of Science and Technology.
The postdoctoral researcher will be affiliated with the Machine Perception and Interaction Lab at Örebro University, which conducts multidisciplinary research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, and human-robot interaction.
**Subject area**
The subject area for this position is Computer Science.
**Background**
The focus of the project is artificial intelligence (AI) and its relation to robotics and embodiment.
Embodiment plays a significant role in learning in AI by enabling cognitive agents to actively acquire knowledge and skills through interaction with their surrounding environment. Embodied AI requires tools, algorithms, and techniques to address real-world challenges, including but not limited to uncertainty, physical constraints, scarce data, and high variability. In particular, there is a need for a better understanding of how embodied cognitive agents can learn to solve complex problems and adapt in dynamic and challenging real-world scenarios, such as underwater environments.
Therefore, the focus of the research project will be to explore how embodied cognitive agents can learn to generate, rank, and select goals leading to autonomous behavior using their intrinsic motivation driven by a combination of perception and active interaction with the surrounding environment.
**Duties and responsibilities**
The appointment as a postdoctoral researcher is intended to enable individuals who have recently been awarded their doctoral degree to consolidate and develop primarily their research skills. The candidate shall be engaged in research on learning for embodied AI systems, particularly those deployed in challenging underwater environments. The candidate will be expected to contribute to both theoretical and experimental aspects of the project.
**Qualifications**
Those qualified for appointment as a postdoctoral researcher are applicants who, at the time of appointment, hold a doctoral degree or have a degree from abroad deemed to correspond to a doctoral degree. Applicants with doctoral degrees that have been awarded no more than 3 years prior to the application deadline will be prioritized. The applicant may not have previously held a position as a postdoctoral researcher for more than one year in the same subject and at the same higher education institution. The position is for a term of at least 2 years initially but may be extended for a further 1 year. If the individual has taken parental leave during the employment period, the employment period will be extended by the corresponding number of days. The employment period may also be extended in the event of absence due to illness.
**Assessment criteria**
The assessment of candidates is based on previous research and publication records and their suitability for the topics outlined above. Practical experience in experimental robotics, particularly in underwater scenarios, is considered an asset.
A basis for the assessment is the applicant’s ability to disseminate information and communicate; collaborate and engage with the wider community; and facilitate the utilization of the university’s research.
Additionally, the applicant’s suitability for the position will be assessed. Suitability refers to the applicant demonstrating the personal qualities required to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities at hand, the ability to cooperate with other staff members, and the ability to contribute to the development of the operations.
Good communication skills in English, both written and spoken, are a requirement.
**Information**
This is a full-time position for two (or three) years. At Örebro University, salary depends on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.
For more information about the position, contact Prof. Amy Loutfi, email:
[email protected] or Dr. Stephanie Lowry, email:
[email protected]
At Örebro University, we expect each member of staff to be open to development and change; take responsibility for their work and performance; demonstrate a keen interest in collaboration and contribute to development; as well as to show respect for others by adopting a constructive and professional approach.
Örebro University actively pursues equal opportunities and gender equality, as well as a work environment characterized by openness, trust, and respect. We value the qualities that diversity adds to our operations.
**Application**
The application is made online. Click the button “Apply” to begin the application procedure.
For the application to be complete, the following electronic documents must be included:
- Covering letter, outlining how you believe you can contribute to the continued development of Örebro University
- CV with a relevant description of your overall qualifications and experience
- Account of research qualifications and experience
- Copies of relevant course/degree certificates and references verifying eligibility and criteria met
- Relevant scientific publications (maximum of 10 and in full-text format)
Only documents written in Swedish, English, Norwegian, and Danish can be reviewed.
More information for applicants can be found on our career site: https://www.oru.se/english/career/available-positions/applicants-and-external-experts/
The application deadline is December 22, 2025. We look forward to receiving your application!
As we have already made our choices in terms of external collaboration