The Robotics Group at the School of Computing, the Australian National University (ANU), Canberra is inviting interested candidates to reach out to robotics.comp.cecc@anu.edu.au for applying to multiple Ph.D. positions under the supervision of Dr. Rahul Shome.
The Research
The next generation of robots will need to address real-world scenarios using robust, efficient interactions with their surroundings. The candidates will focus on effective planning algorithms that robots can use for intelligent problem-solving in human-centric environments. The candidate will be expected to engage with state-of-the-art robotics and AI technologies. The focus will be on designing solutions to real-world robotics problems with practical performance and theoretical guarantees, that address human-centric objectives. The research direction will enable the candidate to touch upon a broad set of topics including robotics, AI, task and motion planning, control, sensing and perception, learning, probabilistic techniques, and human-robot interactions. The candidates will address fundamental algorithmic challenges in robotic planning with a richness of focus areas spanning theoretical underpinnings to applied scenarios.
The candidates will have the opportunity to work on real robotic platforms including manipulators and mobile robots, and modern sensors. The work can involve collaborations with world-renowned researchers both in other associated research groups in ANU as well as international and national collaborations. The candidates will also be encouraged to contribute to open-source planning libraries for the broader benefit and adoption by the wider research community.
The Robotic Group at the ANU School of Computing has a wealth of expertise in algorithmic research in robotics, with celebrated contributions to multi-robot planning, manipulation, task and motion planning, and planning under uncertainty. The Robotics Group has access to a dedicated and expanding robotics lab space with multiple robotic platforms and sensors.
About The Australian National University (ANU)
The ANU School of Computing is part of one of the leading universities of the world (ranked 1st in Australia and 30th in the world according to QS World University Rankings). The School of Computing has the highest rating in AI and Computing Sciences by the Excellence in Research for Australia report. The Australian National University has had six Nobel Laureates, including its current Vice-Chancellor. Established in 1946 in Canberra, ANU is a research-intensive university of international importance and the only university to have been created by the Parliament of Australia. The School of Computing is part of the College of Engineering, Computing and Cybernetics (CECC), which is a vibrant and diverse community of more than three thousand students, staff, and visitors. The School strives towards an innovative and forward-looking intellectual agenda, built on a diverse, inclusive culture.
The story of ANU is incomplete without the spirit of the capital city where it is located. Canberra has been named the third healthiest city in the world and one of the most innovative cities to live in. Canberra is also a planned city – designed to maximize opportunities for work and play. Our healthy appetite for outdoor pursuits is enhanced by the natural resources available: from sailing on Lake Burley Griffin, mountain biking at the world-class Mount Stromlo facility, or heading up to the Snowy Mountains for a day on the slopes. We are also home to most of Australia’s major national cultural institutions, with whom the University has a close relationship, and a cultural calendar overflowing with international exhibitions, arts festivals, and entertainment
For Interested Candidates
The positions are open immediately. Successful candidates will be awarded a yearly stipend of A$34,000, alongside other benefits. ANU is fully supportive of the needs of student researchers. ANU regards equity and diversity as fundamental values and is committed to providing opportunities and an inclusive and welcoming environment, to those of all backgrounds and identities.
Please include in your communication
• a curriculum vitae,
• a cover letter (<=1 page) describing your research interests, any relevant experience, and proposals,
• a copy of your academic transcripts or a record of your courses
If you are excited to be part of the AI revolution in robotics please reach out to us and tell us about your interest at
General information about open positions in the Robotics Group at the ANU School of Computing is available at https://comp.anu.edu.au/join/robotics/
