Postdoc Sensor Fusion for Indoor Localisation Using the Magnetic Field

Challenge: Simultaneous localisation and mapping using the magnetic field as a source of position information.

Change: Use Gaussian processes within sensor fusion to learn quantities, like magnetic field maps, for which it is difficult to derive physics-based models.

Impact: A new method for indoor localisation using only a smartphone, without restrictive assumptions on the environment.

Indoor localisation is a much sought-after goal as it has numerous applications in connection to location-based services, Internet of things, security and emergencies. Since buildings block GPS signals, there is not yet a generally available method for indoor localisation.

This Postdoc project focuses on the fundamental research that is needed to develop a new method for indoor localisation that uses the strongly position-dependent indoor magnetic field as a source of position information. The ambition in this project is to develop a method for indoor localisation that can be used directly when entering any building using sensors present in any modern smartphone. More specifically, the focus is on only using inertial sensors and magnetometers for localisation. To achieve this goal, focus will be on developing new algorithms at the intersection of the two research fields of sensor fusion and probabilistic machine learning. More specifically, focus will mostly be on Gaussian processes, particle filtering and the combination thereof.

The successful candidate will work in the research group of Manon Kok (for more information see https://sites.google.com/site/manonkok2/ ), and will conduct both algorithmic as well as experimental research in the field of indoor localisation using the magnetic field, combining and extending on existing algorithms from the fields of sensor fusion and probabilistic machine learning.

The department Delft Center for Systems and Control (DCSC) of the faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering, coordinates the education and research activities in systems and control at Delft University of Technology. The Centers' research mission is to conduct fundamental research in systems dynamics and control, involving dynamic modelling, advanced control theory, optimisation and signal analysis. The research is motivated by advanced technology development in physical imaging systems, renewable energy, robotics and transportation systems.

We are looking for a talented, outstanding candidate with a PhD degree (or close to completion) in Systems and Control, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Probabilistic Machine Learning or a related field. The candidate should demonstrate a strong background and / or interest in Sensor Fusion, Machine Learning, Data Science, Gaussian Processes, Optimisation and Particle Filtering. The candidate must be enthusiastic and greatly interested in fundamental research in addition to having good programming skills, e.g. in Matlab or Python, for implementing state-of-the-art advanced algorithms. In addition, excellent written and oral communication skills in English are important for this position (Dutch not required).

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (salary indication: € 3.703,00 - € 4.670,00 per month gross). The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

The position will start as soon as possible and run for a total of two years, subjected to a positive evaluation at the end of the first year.

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.

For more information about this vacancy, please contact Dr Manon Kok, email: [email protected] .

For information about the application procedure, please contact Irina Bruckner, HR advisor, email: [email protected] .

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply before 1 September 2022 via the application button and upload:

• CV
• Motivation letter
• Names and contact information of two referees
• Research-oriented document (e.g. thesis, conference/journal paper).

A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.

You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.

Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated. 

Challenge: Simultaneous localisation and mapping using the magnetic field as a source of position information.

Change: Use Gaussian processes within sensor fusion to learn quantities, like magnetic field maps, for which it is difficult to derive physics-based models.

Impact: A new method for indoor localisation using only a smartphone, without restrictive assumptions on the environment.

Indoor localisation is a much sought-after goal as it has numerous applications in connection to location-based services, Internet of things, security and emergencies. Since buildings block GPS signals, there is not yet a generally available method for indoor localisation.

This Postdoc project focuses on the fundamental research that is needed to develop a new method for indoor localisation that uses the strongly position-dependent indoor magnetic field as a source of position information. The ambition in this project is to develop a method for indoor localisation that can be used directly when entering any building using sensors present in any modern smartphone. More specifically, the focus is on only using inertial sensors and magnetometers for localisation. To achieve this goal, focus will be on developing new algorithms at the intersection of the two research fields of sensor fusion and probabilistic machine learning. More specifically, focus will mostly be on Gaussian processes, particle filtering and the combination thereof.

The successful candidate will work in the research group of Manon Kok (for more information see https://sites.google.com/site/manonkok2/ ), and will conduct both algorithmic as well as experimental research in the field of indoor localisation using the magnetic field, combining and extending on existing algorithms from the fields of sensor fusion and probabilistic machine learning.

The department Delft Center for Systems and Control (DCSC) of the faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering, coordinates the education and research activities in systems and control at Delft University of Technology. The Centers' research mission is to conduct fundamental research in systems dynamics and control, involving dynamic modelling, advanced control theory, optimisation and signal analysis. The research is motivated by advanced technology development in physical imaging systems, renewable energy, robotics and transportation systems.

We are looking for a talented, outstanding candidate with a PhD degree (or close to completion) in Systems and Control, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Probabilistic Machine Learning or a related field. The candidate should demonstrate a strong background and / or interest in Sensor Fusion, Machine Learning, Data Science, Gaussian Processes, Optimisation and Particle Filtering. The candidate must be enthusiastic and greatly interested in fundamental research in addition to having good programming skills, e.g. in Matlab or Python, for implementing state-of-the-art advanced algorithms. In addition, excellent written and oral communication skills in English are important for this position (Dutch not required).

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (salary indication: € 3.703,00 - € 4.670,00 per month gross). The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

The position will start as soon as possible and run for a total of two years, subjected to a positive evaluation at the end of the first year.

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

The Faculty of 3mE carries out pioneering research, leading to new fundamental insights and challenging applications in the field of mechanical engineering. From large-scale energy storage, medical instruments, control technology and robotics to smart materials, nanoscale structures and autonomous ships. The foundations and results of this research are reflected in outstanding, contemporary education, inspiring students and PhD candidates to become socially engaged and responsible engineers and scientists. The faculty of 3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with an international scope and high-tech lab facilities. Research and education focus on the design, manufacture, application and modification of products, materials, processes and mechanical devices, contributing to the development and growth of a sustainable society, as well as prosperity and welfare.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? This video will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.

For more information about this vacancy, please contact Dr Manon Kok, email: [email protected] .

For information about the application procedure, please contact Irina Bruckner, HR advisor, email: [email protected] .

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply before 1 September 2022 via the application button and upload:

• CV
• Motivation letter
• Names and contact information of two referees
• Research-oriented document (e.g. thesis, conference/journal paper).

A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.

You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.

Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.