Postdoc Positions in Planning of Coordinated Robotic Shipbuilding Operations

SDU Center for Large Structure Production (LSP), part of the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Institute, University of Southern Denmark (SDU), invites applications for one or more fully funded Postdoc positions in the area of model- and simulation-based planning and control of robotic shipbuilding operations (such as hull welding). The positions will be vacant from 1 August 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter, and is for a 2-year period. Main work location is Odense/Denmark at SDU and Odense Havn (Odense Port).

The application deadline is 8 May 2024 at 11.59 PM / 23.59 (CET/CEST) 

Research environment

The candidate will be part of SDU’s newly established Center for Large Structure Production (LSP). LSP’s central ambition is to provide a physical “go-to” lab for companies in the sectors maritime, construction and energy to carry out research, development and testing of novel solutions in the production of large structures, such as buildings, ships, and offshore platforms. In this context, the candidate is expected to work closely with our industrial partners on application-oriented use cases, while helping to commission and operate the unique set of equipment of the center. 

LSP is closely working together the companies at Odense Havn and similar partners making large structures across Denmark and Europe. LSP is integrated with the Odense Robotics Cluster involving startups and established companies in robotics. We are a team of currently ca. 15 researchers and engineers, specialized in robot solutions involving modelling, simulation, and control of advanced robot technologies (systems and services) for application-oriented industrial applications. 

Our group is involved in a variety of national and European projects and features a strong network of academic and industrial partners. We solve challenging research problems derived from real-life challenges by implementing novel robot solutions. We value teamwork, professional diligence, enthusiasm for robotics and the drive to adopt new skills and extended responsibilities. We offer an open, international team, with flexible work organization and support of individual development.

Job description

The Postdoc position is associated with a project in the maritime sector. The overall objective of the project is to develop, control and demonstrate LSP’s multi-robot/multi-purpose gantry system for executing central shipbuilding operations, such as hull welding. The main activities in the project will be industrial R&D tasks carried out by LSP’s engineers in close collaboration with company partners. 

The starting point for the candidate to develop their academic profile in LSP will be to work on so-called “zero programming” methods and tools to define a digital workflow from product design to production operations. Based on analyzing ship designs based on discrete-event simulations of their production, the candidate will develop detailed quasi-continuous 3D simulations of the required production operations, including multiple robots, tools, and sensors. Facilitating Digital Twins, these 3D simulations will then be further developed into control of the physical assets in LSP’s unique multi-purpose/multi-robot gantry system.

Profile and requirements

The candidate is expected to have most of the following qualifications:

• PhD degree in engineering with outstanding academic track record
• Documented knowledge in automation and/or logistics
• Documented experience with simulation and Digital Twins
• Strong programming skills (particularly in C/C++ and Python)
• Strong mathematics skills and practical knowledge in 3D modelling
• Ability to work independently as part of an agile team, with a strong sense of responsibility
• Willingness to engage in application-oriented R&D, by closely interacting with company staff

In close teamwork with our researchers and staff from our industrial partners, the candidate will grow a hands-on expertise in robotic production operations, including robots, tools, and sensors. 

Contact information

For further information, please contact Professor Christian Schlette via email ([email protected]) or on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/christian-schlette/).

If you experience technical problems, you must contact [email protected].

Application procedure

Before applying the candidates are expected to read the SDU information on How to apply and Faculty information on How to apply – Academic staff.

The application must be in English and must include:

• Motivated application.
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae. 
• Certificates/Diplomas (MSc and PhD). 
• List of publications indicating the publications attached.
• Examples of the most relevant publications. Please attach one pdf-file for each publication.
• Reference letters and other relevant qualifications may also be included.

Assessment and selection process

Applications will be assessed by an assessment committee or an expert. Shortlisting may be applied. Only shortlisted candidates will receive a written assessment. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the faculty. Interviews and tests may be part of the selection process.   

Conditions of employment

Employment as a Postdoc fellow requires scientific qualifications at PhD level. Employment as a Postdoc is temporary and will cease without further notice at the end of the period.

Research will be predominant in the position. Teaching assignments can occur. Furthermore, other types of assignments may occur to a limited degree. The faculty determines the distribution of the various assignments. The weighting of the different assignments may vary over time.

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Please check links for more information on salary and taxation.

The application deadline is 8 May 2024 at 11.59PM / 23.59 (CET/CEST) 

Formalities

• All files must be in English.
• Documents should not contain a CPR number (civil registration number) – in this case, the CPR number must be crossed out.
• The application and CV must not exceed 10 MB. 

The University of Southern Denmark wishes to reflect the surrounding community and therefore encourages everyone, regardless of personal background, to apply for the position.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark.

Further information about The Faculty of Engineering.