PhD scholarship in Neural Networks-based X-ray Tissue Imaging for Robotic Automation - DTU Compute

Are you fascinated by the possibilities of employing neural networks in computer vision? Would you like to develop methods with the potential to address critical societal challenges? Would you thrive in an innovation-centric environment that bridges academia and industry. If so, read on!

We are seeking applicants for a 3-year PhD position to join the DEXTRA research project, funded by Innovation Fund Denmark. As a PhD student, you will be enrolled in the PhD school at DTU Compute and affiliated with the Visual Computing Section. Much of your work will be carried out at the Danish Technological Institute, where DEXTRA project is managed.

Responsibilities and tasks 
The overreaching objective of DEXTRA project is to develop X-ray imaging solution for integration into robotic meat deboning plants. Your PhD project will focus on developing reconstruction and analysis method capable of determining 3D tissue composition (bone, meat, fat, air) from a limited number of projections, while ensuring sufficient accuracy. To achieve this, we plan to develop CT reconstruction leveraging pre-trained neural fields.

The biggest part of your work will involve developing and adapting deep learning algorithms such that they can be applied to the data obtained from X-ray imaging. You will collaborate closely with the team designing the appropriate imaging station. The 3D reconstructions you generate will serve as guidance for the deboning robot. You will also have the opportunity to collaborate with the team developing the robotic solution.

As a PhD student, you will actively participate in a structured PhD program where you will follow courses, engage in dissemination activities, and carry out research activities.

Qualifications
To be considered for the position, you need a solid background in natural sciences (mathematics and physics), demonstrated proficiency in programming (Python), and deep learning methods (for example implemented in PyTorch). You need to document these skills by detailing relevant university courses completed or the relevant experience gained.

Additionally, experience in 2D and 3D image analysis, tomographic reconstruction, and high-performance computing, is highly advantageous.

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education.

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

The position is a full-time position, and the period of employment is 3 years. The starting date is according to a mutual agreement, preferably in March 2025. 

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Vedrana A. Dahl, vand@dtu.dk. 

You can read more about DTU Compute at www.compute.dtu.dk/english. 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 12 December 2024 (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:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
• Any additional documents relevant to your application.

You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.

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 Compute
DTU Compute is a unique and internationally recognized academic department with 385 employees and 11 research sections spanning the science disciplines mathematics, statistics, computer science, and engineering. We conduct research, teaching and innovation of high international standard – producing new knowledge and technology-based solutions to societal challenges. We have a long-term involvement in applied and interdisciplinary research, big data and data science, artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT), smart and secure societies, smart manufacturing, and life science. At DTU Compute we believe in a diverse workplace with a flexible work-life balance. The section for Scientific Computing at DTU Compute performs interdisciplinary research in mathematical modeling, numerical analysis and computational algorithms aimed at complex and large-scale problems in science, engineering and society. It has an internationally recognized team on inverse problems.

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.