PhD position in Computational Physics – Simulation Intelligence

The Department of Physics at Umeå University (https://www.umu.se/en/department-of-physics/) conducts strong research in the areas of condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, photonics, and theoretical and computational physics. We announce a PhD position for a project focusing on simulation and artificial intelligence related to field robotics and autonomous vehicles. Last day to apply is November 15, 2025. Starting date is March 1, 2026, or by agreement.

Project description

Physics-based simulation is an essential tool for training and testing of AI models and control systems for robots and autonomous vehicles. In a digital environment, large amounts of annotated training data can be created safely and easily. Conducting most of the development in a digital environment is particularly important when dealing with mobile, heavy and powerful machines, and especially in the early development phases when they exist only as an idea. However, there are significant challenges in creating, conducting, and analyzing simulations at the scale and quality required. These are addressed in the project ”Simulation Intelligence”.

This project research techniques for intelligently automating processes for large-scale simulation of robots and mobile machinery that operate in and physically manipulate dynamic environments. Research questions include automated modeling and model simplification/refinement supported by generative AI, system identification, and 3D reconstruction algorithms. Additionally, the research involves developing statistical and algorithmic methods to analyze large amounts of simulation data, models that explain how and why an autonomously controlled machine fails or underperforms, and methods to recognize simulation data that is physically unrealistic. The doctoral candidate will have the opportunity to participate in ongoing development projects where simulation and AI are applied to realize autonomous capabilities in real machines used in mining, forestry, construction, or the space industry.

The doctoral candidate position is fully funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network ENGAGE, which stands for "Educating Europe’s Future Engineers for the Next Generation of Mobile Working Machines: AI driven Sustainability, Productivity, and Safety." The ENGAGE network includes an additional 11 doctoral students and a number of European universities and companies. Exchanges occur through workshops, tailored courses, and international conferences. For more information about ENGAGE, please see the [https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101226234]. The applicant must meet the MSCA mobility requirements, which means that the person must not have lived or worked in Sweden for more than 12 months in the last 36 months.

The doctoral project, "Simulation Intelligence," is a collaboration between Umeå University and Algoryx Simulation AB, with supervision from both organizations. The doctoral student is employed by Umeå University the first and fourth year and by Algoryx during the second and third year. The primary workplace is where the employment is but throughout the project it will be possible to spend time at both places. At Umeå University, the student is affiliated with the Digital Physics research group located at the UMIT Research Lab, which gathers computing-oriented researchers in computer science, physics, and mathematics. Algoryx, also based in Umeå, specializes in software and solutions for real-time physics simulation with a focus on robotics and heavy machinery. Approximately 75% of the staff are engaged in research and development concerning simulation functionality and performance, as well as its application in robotics, automation, and AI.

Competence requirements

To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level you are required to have completed a second-cycle level degree or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits. The recruitment procedure will follow the Higher Education Ordinance (Högskoleförordningen). Prerequisites include 240 ECTS credits (högskolepoäng) of higher education studies, of which 60 should be on an advanced level (Master’s level), or equivalent. In addition, to meet the requirement for admission to doctoral studies in computational physics, 90 ECTS need to be in the subject areas of physics, computer science, mathematics, mathematical statistics, or related areas, of which at least 30 credits must be at an advanced level. Courses in statistical analysis, quantitative methods, or mathematical models acquired outside these subject areas may also be included. An applicant is also eligible if they have acquired essentially equivalent knowledge in other ways, within or outside the country. The prerequisites mentioned above are considered fulfilled even by those who have acquired essentially equivalent knowledge in another way. The requirements do not need to be fulfilled at the time of application but only at the enrollment. Fluency in English is mandatory. Candidates should have documented background in computational physics. It will be considered a merit with previous experience or knowledge in one or several of the following topics: automation, machine learning, mathematical statistics, optimization, and robotics. Experience from programming in C/C++ or Python is also meritorious.

Willingness to work in an inter-cultural, international, and diverse group, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team, are fundamental.

The applicant must meet the MSCA mobility requirements, which means that the person must not have lived or worked in Sweden for more than 12 months in the last 36 months.

Terms of employment

The employment is expected to result in a doctoral degree and the main assignment for the doctoral student is thus to be part of the research education, which includes participation in the described research project but also to take relevant courses. Teaching and other departmental work (up to a maximum of 20%) can be included. The employment is limited to four years at full time or up to five years if teaching and other departmental work is performed. The salary is fixed according to the established salary level for doctoral students with the possibility of MSCA salary supplement for mobility and accompanying family. The employment starts in March 2026 or according to agreement.

The application

The application should contain:

1. A cover letter with summary of research interests and motivation (max. 1 page)

2. Curriculum Vitae.

3. Certified copies of relevant degree certificate(s) translated to English or Swedish.

4. Transcripts with grades, with English or Swedish translation. Note that for international (extra-EU) applicants the grading system should be explained in brief.

5. Copies of student theses and publications (if any) 6. Names and contact information of at least one reference person.

You apply via our e-recruitment system Varbi. The deadline for applications is November 15, 2025. Log in and apply via the button at the bottom of the page. All documents should be uploaded in pdf format.

More information

For further information contact the Principal Investigator of the project, Associate Professor Martin Servin, martin.servin@umu.se

We look forward to receiving your application!