The Chair of Automation and Control (Prof. Thomas Meurer) at the Institute of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology of the Faculty of Engineering at Kiel University, Kiel, Germany is at the earliest possible date seeking for a PhD student to work on path planning and tracking control of autonomous ships in confined environments. Note that the position will be re-located to the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) in 2023.
The project aims at COLREG conformal path/trajectory planning and control for highly automated or autonomous vessels in confined maritime environments with static and dynamic obstacles. This does include the development of suitable control theoretic concepts, their analysis and numerical implementation. Software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop tests will be conducted and the transfer to a scaled experimental vessel will be performed to evaluate the concepts at sea.
Candidates should possess
- An above-average university degree (Master, Diploma (Univ.) or equivalent) with a technical specialization in optimization and control theory for nonlinear dynamical systems.
- Knowledge in mathematical modeling of dynamical systems, their control (optimal, model predictive, nonlinear), and their numerical analysis and simulation. Experience in the practical implementation of model predictive controllers or moving horizon estimators on embedded devices or industrial PCs is beneficial.
- Motivation and ability to work scientifically coupled with an independent and responsible working approach.
- Ability to communicate and work in a team.
- Very good commandment of the English language, both written and spoken. Commandment of the German language is beneficial.
The position is limited to three years. The salary is competitive according to the German pay scale TVL-13 with experience level depending on previous work experience, including social benefits.
To apply please submit
- one-page cover letter
- full Curriculum Vitae
- names and contact information for at least two professional references as single PDF file to Prof. Thomas Meurer (tm@tf.uni-kiel.de).
Applications should be submitted before October 31st, 2022. This position is available effective immediately.
