Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 41,500 students and about 4,600 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.
The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.
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. The research group Digital Physics (www.digitalphysics.se) develops methods for physical AI and physics‑based simulation for complex mechanical systems.
We are now seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a project aiming at physics‑informed autonomous control of machines operating in rough terrain. The postdoctoral position is for two years. The starting date is 1 June 2026, or as agreed. The application deadline is 1 May 2026.
Project description and working tasks
The overall objective of the project is to develop knowledge, models, and algorithms for physics‑informed autonomous control of heavy machinery in uneven and deformable terrain. Specific project tasks include fundamental studies of physics‑informed control of mobile manipulators, data collection from real and simulated machines, and model development and testing in simulated environments. The project offers close collaboration with international leading developers of machines, simulators, and of physical AI solutions.
Competence requirements
To be appointed under the postdoctoral agreement, the postdoctoral fellow is required to have completed a doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree. This qualification requirements must be fulfilled no later than at the time of the appointment decision.
To be appointed under the postdoctoral agreement, priority should be given to candidates who completed their doctoral degree, according to what is stipulated in the paragraph above, no later than three years prior. If there are special reasons, candidates who completed their doctoral degree prior to that may also be eligible. Special reasons include absence due to illness, parental leave, appointments of trust in trade union organisations, military service, or similar circumstances, as well as clinical practice or other forms of appointment/assignment relevant to the subject area.
A qualified candidate should also be able to demonstrate:
1. Excellent written and spoken English, 2. Documented experience in modeling and simulation, and 3. Independence, creativity, and very strong collaboration skills.
Particularly meritorious is documented expertise in:
Modeling and simulation of physical systems, Deep learning with applications in robotics, in particular field robotics, and Control and motion planning of mechatronic systems.
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.
The application must be written in English or Swedish. The application is made through our electronic recruitment system. Documents sent electronically must be in Word or PDF format. Log in to the system and apply via the button at the end of this page. The closing date is 1st of May 2026.
More information For further information contact the Principal Investigator of the project, Associate Professor Martin Servin, martin.servin@umu.se
Umeå University wants to offer an equal environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lay the foundation for learning, creativity and development. We welcome people with different backgrounds and experiences to apply for the current employment.
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