Position: Two research positions (full-time or part-time) for “LEAR” Research Group at CYENS Centre of Excellence
1st position: Early-stage Researcher position (with or without master’s degree)
2nd position: Experienced (post-doctoral) Researcher position
Category: An initial one-year employment contract will be offered with the possibility for renewal depending on performance and project needs.
Location: Nicosia, Cyprus
Preferred Start Date: January 2023 or as soon thereafter.
Application Deadline: 20/11/2022
No. Of Positions: 2
Salary range:
1400 – 1800 euro (gross) for the Early-stage Researcher position
2250 – 2500 euro (gross) for the Experienced (post-doctoral) Researcher position.
About the position
The Learning Agents and Robots (LEAR) research group (https://lear.cyens.org.cy/) conducts research on artificial intelligence and its intersection with robotics, focusing on creating software agents and robots that learn to predict and understand the world, solve tasks, accumulate skills, interact with humans or other agents, and make adaptive decisions in complex, dynamic and uncertain environments. To achieve these goals, the group investigates approaches from machine learning (e.g., deep learning, reinforcement learning, continual learning), evolutionary computation (e.g., quality-diversity optimization), robotic simulation, perception, planning and control, among others.
Our newly-established robotics lab is currently populated with a Unitree A1 quadruped robot and 4 Parrot Anafi drones.
The LEAR MRG is looking for research associates with experience in machine learning and robotics. The successful candidates will work under the supervision of Dr. Vassilis Vassiliades (leader of the LEAR group).
The successful candidates will have the opportunity to conduct fundamental and/or applied research in the aforementioned areas. Where applicable, candidates may also participate in the preparation of project reports and deliverables, research proposals for funding, software development, and travel abroad for dissemination activities. Furthermore, successful candidates will be encouraged to publish/present their research results in prestigious international conferences and journals.
Responsibilities of Research Associate:
Carry out fundamental or applied research in the areas of Machine Learning and/or Robotics.
Participate in currently active research projects in the research group.
Participate in the preparation of reports, research papers, and presentations.
Disseminate research findings.
Participate in the preparation of grant proposals.
Participate in innovation activities related to the exploitation of research outputs.
Attend technical and non-technical training courses and workshops as required.
Undertake any other required duties based on projects’ needs.
General qualifications and requirements
Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Computer Science or Engineering) from an accredited institution.
PhD in a relevant field (e.g., Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning / Robotics) [required for Experienced Researcher position].
Strong programming skills in Python and/or C++.
Experience with machine learning.
Language requirements: Excellent written and oral English-language skills will be required.
For both positions, additional experience, skills, or qualifications in any of the following categories will be considered an advantage:
Robotic simulators (e.g., Gazebo, PyBullet, Isaac Sim), physics engines, game engines, working with ROS, and/or physical robots.
Experience in one or more of the following areas: evolutionary algorithms (e.g., quality-diversity algorithms, open-endedness), deep learning, reinforcement learning, continual learning, autonomous systems (e.g., sensor fusion), control theory (e.g., model-predictive control), legged locomotion, natural language processing, speech processing, or computer vision.
Embedded systems (e.g., Jetson) or mobile app development.
High-impact research publications on relevant topics.
Strong mathematical background.
Students’ supervision.
Previous grant-writing experience.
Relevant industrial / innovation / entrepreneurship experience and interest.
Benefits
Take advantage of this opportunity for your professional and personal development by being a part of our fast- growing Research and Innovation Centre of Excellence. A very attractive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate according to qualifications and experience.
Application process
For full consideration, interested applicants should submit the following items via the form (Research Associates in Machine Learning and Robotics – Learning Agents and Robots (LEAR) group | Jobs at CYENS - Centre of Excellence (personio.com)) and mention the position you are applying for: “Application for Research Associates in Machine Learning and Robotics – LEAR group”:
Process for Research Associates:
A cover letter which clearly specifies 1) contact details, 2) employment availability date, 3) part-time or full-time availability, 4) early-stage or experienced researcher position, 5) rationale on why you think you would be a good fit for the position.
A detailed curriculum vitae in English.
Copies of academic degrees (BSc/MSc/PhD) and transcripts.
Description of their academic and research experiences as well as any relevant industrial / innovation / entrepreneurship experience, where applicable (500 words maximum).
Contact details of two University professors or one University professor and one industry referee who will provide the letters.
Two (2) representative publications (if applicable).
Incomplete applications will not be accepted.