Job Description

Automated vehicles promise to bring enhanced safety and more comfort to our roads. On the way towards full autonomy, sharing roads between autonomous vehicles (AVs) and human actors is unavoidable. Moreover, even if all vehicles on the road were automated, vulnerable road users (VRU), e.g. pedestrians, would still be  crossing the streets. Vehicle-to-everything communication (V2X) enables vehicles to share their status, perception and intention. However, how humans will be able to be part of the V2X paradigm is less clear. In order to adress this challenge, the proposed thesis will investigate how a social robot can be used to orchestrate traffic and moderate interactions between VRU (via natural communications) and automated vehicles (via digital communications). Relevant questions include how the robot can access and leverage information provided by collective perception systems formed by V2X-enabled AVs and how the multi-modal interaction with AVs and VRUs should look like.

The thesis is conducted within a project funded by KIT Future Fields involving three research groups at KIT (with one PhD student per group).

The tasks include:

• Conduct research in the predefined areas
• Disseminate results via scientific publications
• Implement proof-of-concept software tools
• Collaborate with other researchers participating in the Future Fields project
• Participate in teaching

Your Profile

The candidate should possess an Msc degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or any related discipline. The ideal candidate should have knowledge and experience in one or more of the following topics:

• Vehicle-to-everything communication
• Human-Robot Interaction
• Computer Vision
• Sensor Fusion
• Robotics
• Machine Learning
• Automated Driving Systems

The position requires strong analytical and programming skills. Fluency in English (verbal and written) are required, knowledge of German is a plus. Peer-reviewed scientific publications are a plus but not expected. Most importantly, you should be curiosity driven and excited about science.

What we offer

PhD students will receive an internationally competitive salary and benefits according to the TV-L E13 scale. An initial contract will be offered for 1 year with the possibility of extension up to 5 years. We offer state-of-the-art research facilities, career and family support, access to many research partners, while being located in one of Germany's most beautiful and innovative regions.

How to apply

Applications should be send via email to alexey.vinel∂kit.edu with a single PDF document containing their full CV (including name and contact information of 2-3 references), a transcript of modules and results from university courses, a motivation letter or research statement and copies of any peer-reviewed publications (if any).

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but those received by 31. Juli 2024 will be prioritized. Early applications are encouraged.

KIT attaches great importance to professional equality between women and men. We are therefore particularly pleased to receive applications from women. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given priority if they are suitable.