PhD Stipend in 5G-connected assistive robots

Wireless connectivity and cloud computing will be the driving forces of 5G systems, enabling the novel use case in digital health. An important future use case are cloud-connected assistive robots, like bionic limbs and exoskeletons, that will be equipped with advanced sensors and cloud connectivity and become truly intelligent, capable to substantially improve the quality of patients’ lives.

The concept of the cloud-connected assistive robots relies on interplay between connectivity, cloud functionality and user behaviour. The goal of this phd project is to address the related research and design aspects that include(but are not limited to):

• What are the connectivity requirements to support the operation of cloud-connected assistive robots? Which interfaces and communication techniques should be used to achieve the requirements?
• How can we use cloud resources to revolutionise the capabilities of assistive robots? What is the improvement in performance and impact on the user experience? What are the advantages and limitations of cloud-based versus edge-based computation frameworks?
• How to achieve robust functioning of the cloud-connected assistive robot despite expected disturbances in communication(packet loss, jitter, loss of connection)?
• What are the optimal models for sharing the control between the cloud-based controller and the user, and how will user react and adapt to communication disturbances?

Prospective applicants to this PhD proposal should have the following qualifications;

• M.Sc. degree in wireless communications, communications engineering, computer science, automation and control or similar
• solid mathematical and analytical skills;
• experience in programming, e.g., in C++, Phython or Matlab(experience with programming of software defined radios and/or off-the-shelf communication modules is a plus);
• a creative mindset and curiosity to research and develop new solutions with highly skilled colleagues.

The study project will be conducted in collaboration with researchers from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology; Telenor, Denmark; OttoBock, Germany; and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark.

The successful candidate will be hosted by CMI section, which features a dynamic and international atmosphere. The section is located in Copenhagen, a vibrant metropolitan city that tops quality-of-life charts. The successful candidate will enjoy a world-class research environment, excellent working conditions, and full employment benefits accompanied with a competitive salary.

You may obtain further information from prof. Cedomir Stefanovic, Department of Electronic Systems, phone:+45 21 12 49 74, email:[email protected] , concerning the scientific aspects of the stipend.

PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1039 of August 27, 2013 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time.

Shortlisting will be applied. This means that subsequent to the deadline for applications the head of department supported by the chair of the assessment committee will select candidates for assessment. All applicants will be informed whether they will be assessed or not.

For further information about stipends and salary as well as practical issues concerning the application procedure contact Ms. Lisbeth Diinhoff, The Doctoral School at The Technical Faculty of IT and Design, email:[email protected] , phone:+45 9940 9589.

For more information of The Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design:www.phd.tech.aau.dk

The application is only to be submitted online by using the"Apply online" button below.

AAU wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background or belief.

Appointment and salary as a PhD fellow are according to the Ministry of Finance Circular of 15 December 2021 on the Collective Agreement for Academics in Denmark, Appendix 5, regarding PhD fellows, and with the current Circular of 11 December 2019 on the employment structure at Danish universities.