Research Assistant in Robot Programming and Deployment for Mining Robotics - DTU Electro

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our team in developing and deploying robotic solutions for mining applications. The position focuses on advanced robotic planning, perception, and control, with a strong emphasis on real-world experimental validation. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in robot programming, integrating sensing and actuation, and deploying robotic systems in challenging environments. This role is part of an innovative research project aimed at enhancing autonomous robotic operations in mining, improving efficiency, safety, and adaptability in underground scenarios.

Responsibilities and qualifications
As part of this position, you are expected to:

• Develop and implement robotic planning, perception, and control algorithms for autonomous mining operations.
• Design, program, and deploy robot software for real-world mining applications, ensuring robustness and reliability.
• Integrate sensors (e.g., LiDAR, cameras, IMUs) and actuation systems for autonomous navigation and manipulation.
• Conduct experimental validation of robotic systems in lab and field environments, including underground and open-pit mining scenarios.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including mechanical engineers, AI researchers, and industry partners, to advance robotic deployment strategies.
• Optimize robotic performance for harsh and unstructured environments, focusing on reliability and adaptability.
• Document research findings, contribute to scientific publications, and present results at conferences and industry meetings.

The ideal candidate has:

• Strong programming skills in C++ and Python, with experience in ROS/ROS2 and real-time systems.
• Experience in robotic perception (e.g., sensor fusion, SLAM, object detection) and motion planning.
• Hands-on experience in deploying robotic systems in real-world environments, preferably in mining, industrial, or extreme environments.
• Proficiency in working with robotic hardware, embedded systems, and mechatronic integration.
• Knowledge of control algorithms, kinematics, and dynamics for robotic applications.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative research setting.
• Strong analytical skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience with machine learning or AI techniques applied to robotics is a plus.

As a formal qualification, you must have a master’s degree in engineering or equivalent.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment follows the project's end date, expected to be 31 December 2026. The employment will cease if the chosen candidate's maximum employment duration as a Research Assistant (3 years) is surpassed.

Starting date will be according to mutual agreement. The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Matteo Fumagalli, email: mafum@dtu.dk.

You can read more about DTU Electro at https://electro.dtu.dk/.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 4 April 2025 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc)

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU Electro (Department of Electrical and Photonics Engineering) at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading research institution in electrical and photonics engineering. The department conducts cutting-edge research in robotics, autonomous systems, control, embedded systems, sensing technologies, and artificial intelligence, with strong collaborations across academia and industry. DTU Electro is committed to developing innovative technologies that address global challenges in automation, energy, healthcare, and industrial applications.

The Control, Robotics, and Embodied AI (CREA) Group at DTU Electro focuses on advancing intelligent robotic systems capable of autonomous decision-making, adaptive control, and real-world deployment. The group’s research covers robot control, motion planning, perception, learning, and human-robot interaction, with applications in field robotics, industrial automation, and autonomous exploration. CREA integrates insights from control theory, artificial intelligence, and mechatronics to develop physically capable robots that can operate in challenging and unstructured environments. The group actively collaborates with international research institutions and industry partners to bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world robotic applications, including mining, infrastructure inspection, and autonomous mobility.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.