PhD scholarship within Predictive Runtime Verification of AI-enabled Robotic Autonomous Systems

About the job

A PhD scholarship is available within Predictive Runtime Verification of AI-enabled Robotic Autonomous Systems at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU). The position is for a period of 3 years, with a desired start date of 1st of January 2026.

Responsibilities

• Survey state-of-the-art AI-enabled Predictive Runtime Verification (PRV) methodologies and analyze their suitability for defence-oriented, safety-critical, autonomous robotic applications.
• Formulate and develop novel algorithms, formal methodologies, and tools for context-aware PRV and AI-enhanced monitor synthesis.
• Conduct a research stay at the Norwegian Defence University College (FHS) to align research with the domain-specific requirements and preferences.
• Integrate PRV frameworks with adaptive risk-mitigation, failure avoidance, and real-time replanning mechanisms.
• Perform early-phase prototyping, software implementation (e.g., ROS 2), and testing on robotic platforms in defence-relevant environments and scenarios.
• Author scientific papers for presentation at international high-impact conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
• Complete mandatory PhD coursework and seminars in accordance with NMBU doctoral regulations.

Qualifications

• A Master's degree or equivalent in Robotics, Computer Science, Cybernetics, Formal Methods, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field.
• Candidates submitting M.Sc. thesis within the application deadline may be considered.
• In the Master’s degree, both the average grade point and the Master’s thesis, must be B or better in the Norwegian educational system.
• Proficiency in both written and oral English.
• Solid knowledge and background in at least two of the following fields: Formal Methods / Runtime Verification, AI / Machine Learning, Autonomous Systems / Control, or Software Development for Robotics (e.g., ROS/ROS 2).
• Strong programming skills (Python, C++, etc.).
• Eligibility for security clearance at a minimum level of "Secret" and any licences or approvals required under Norwegian export control legislation.

Personal qualities

• Curious, result-oriented, and highly motivated.
• Strong communication and cooperation skills.
• Solid interest in robotics.
• Good collaboration skills and an ability to join interdisciplinary academic/industrial communities.

We offer

• A PhD position with a salary of 550,800 NOK per year, with the possibility of a higher salary for exceptionally well-qualified candidates.
• Opportunities for research collaboration with international academic partners, including Académie Militaire de Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan, France, University of York, UK, and Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Stockholm, Sweden.
• Research stay at the Norwegian Defence University College (FHS).
• Participation in international high-impact conferences and peer-reviewed journals.

How to apply

Send your application electronically via the link "Apply for this job" at the top of this page. This will route you to the University's Web Recruitment System, where you will need to register an account (if you have not already) and log in before completing the online application form.

Contact

For further information, please contact Associate Professor David Anisi (main supervisor), e-mail: david.anisi@nmbu.no.