Postdoc in Verification, Validation & Perception for Robotics

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character. The Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT) at the University of Luxembourg is a leading international research and innovation centre in secure, reliable and trustworthy ICT systems and services.

Your role: The successful candidate is expected to take a leading role in defining, acquiring, managing, and scientifically contributing to projects around AI-enabled space-borne perception systems for robotic proximity operations in collaboration with Redwire Space Luxembourg. The candidate will carry a leading role in this area and support PhD candidates in their thesis research. The candidate will work closely with Prof. Olivares-Mendez and Dr. Carol Martinez, the members of the Space Robotics (SpaceR) research group (www.spacer.lu) and Redwire Space Luxembourg (https://redwirespace.com/).

The group works across the entire spectrum of space robotics research and applied research to conceive and demonstrate future orbital and planetary space robotics paradigms on in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing, space debris removal, XR immersive teleoperation, robot multi-modal perception (vision and tactile), and multi-robot cooperation. Researchers with an interest in non-terrestrial robotic manipulation will find a young and vibrant team of over 23 members fostering a collaborative atmosphere (1 Prof., 1 Research Scientist, 15 PhD students, 5 PostDocs, 1 Research assistant). SpaceR's state-of-the-art facilities include two physical laboratories, the LunaLab and Zero-G Lab, and a new Robotic Manipulation Lab - dedicated environments for researchers to test their results on advanced equipment. For further information, you may check: wwwen.uni.lu/snt/research/spacer and www.spacer.lu.

The candidate will lead the development of a V&V framework for AI-augmented perception systems and will be responsible for activities in the Zero-G Lab and contributing to the Black-Hole Lab at Redwire Space Luxembourg for Hardware in the loop emulation of on-orbit scenarios.

Responsibilities: Investigate existing verification and validation (V&V) techniques for space systems, software and algorithms with a focus on specific challenges of space-borne perception and proximity operations uncooperative spacecraft. Develop novel methods for characterization and quantification of input-output bounds in an AI-augmented perception system: Develop novel methodologies and tools for characterizing and/or quantifying the performance envelope, robustness, and safety properties of perception systems that encompass learning-based models. Develop methods and tools for automatic/procedural generation of relevant operational conditions. Inform and educate certification processes for such systems for the industrial partner: Explore approaches to generate safety cases and evidence suitable for contributing to the potential certification of these AI components according to relevant space standards. Lead SITL and HITL Test campaigns: Implement algorithms and conduct experiments using both synthetic and potentially real datasets/simulators relevant to space environments. Teamworking: Collaborate closely with team members at SpaceR and Redwire Space.

Your profile: PhD in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a related field, with a focus on Robotic Perception and learning based methods. Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the following areas: Machine Learning / Deep Learning (particularly Computer Vision or 3D perception), Verification & Validation (V&V) of advanced algorithms, software or systems, Formal Methods, Safety Engineering / Safety-Critical Systems, Control / Estimation Theory. Intermediate programming skills in Python and C++. Intermediate level skills and proven experience with PyTorch. Working knowledge of ROS and previous experience of handling robotic experiments. Proven track record in relevant conferences and journals: At least three publications in top-tier venues: IROS, ICRA, RSS, R-AL, TRO, TFR, etc. Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory. Commitment, teamwork and a critical mind. The ideal candidate should have the following skills and proficiencies: Rapid learner and ready to push the frontier of space-borne perception systems. Strong grasp of the state of the art in machine learning for perception or safety in machine learning or GNC systems. Specific knowledge of dynamics of spacecraft/space manipulator systems or online/offline certifiability of ML models. Experience with optical navigation or perception techniques (classical or learning-based) for space applications. Proven experience with Hardware and Software in the Loop testing of perception systems for space. Experience bridging Machine Learning with V&V, Formal Methods, or Safety Engineering.

We offer: Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the "University of the Greater Region" (UniGR). A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure. A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs…

How to apply: Applications should include: Curriculum Vitae, Cover letter. Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered. The University of Luxembourg is committed to achieving gender parity among its staff. Should candidates present equivalent profiles, preference will be given to female candidates in all departments where gender parity is not yet achieved. The University of Luxembourg embraces inclusion and diversity as key values. We are fully committed to removing any discriminatory barrier related to gender, and not only, in recruitment and career progression of our staff. General information: Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 24 Month, Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week, Location: Kirchberg Campus, Internal Title: Postdoctoral researcher, Job Reference: UOL07765. The yearly gross salary for every Postdoctoral Researcher at the UL is EUR 85176 (full time).