PhD Position in Software Engineering & Robotics (Fall 2025 Start)

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This interdisciplinary PhD opportunity sits at the nexus of software engineering, MLOps, robotics, and AI-enabled cyber-physical systems (AI-CPS). The research will focus on enhancing the adaptability and autonomy of UAVs operating in complex environments. Key themes include AI/ML integration into CPS, continuous deployment pipelines, and robust experimental design for MLOps frameworks.

Start Date and Duration

• Target start: Fall 2025 (Target possible September 2025)

• Duration: Typically 4 years (based on the Swiss PhD system)

Important Notes:
The position is reserved for international applicants (i.e., those who have not worked or studied in Switzerland in the past 3 years). Tasks
Your Role

You will:

• Conduct advanced research on MLOps for AI-CPS, including UAV systems.

• Develop and prototype MLOps solutions tailored to real-world CPS challenges.

• Design and implement experimental testbeds to evaluate AI-CPS.

• Collaborate across institutions and disciplines to integrate research into deployable software.

• Publish results in top-tier venues in Software Engineering, Robotics, and Systems.

Requirements

We are seeking motivated PhD candidates with the following qualifications:

Education :

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Robotics, or closely related fields

Core Skills required:

• Strong programming proficiency (e.g., Python, C/C++, or similar languages).

• Solid understanding of software engineering principles and toolchains.

• Experience or strong interest in MLOps, DevOps, or data engineering.

• Familiarity with robotics, UAV systems, or virtual reality technologies is a strong plus.

• Excellent communication and writing skills; fluency in English is required.

• Ability to work both independently and within collaborative, cross-institutional teams.

Important Notes:
The position is reserved for international applicants (i.e., those who have not worked or studied in Switzerland in the past 3 years).
We offer
What We Offer:

• Participation in a dynamic, interdisciplinary research team with strong academic and industrial ties.

• Mentorship from leading experts in software engineering, AI, and robotics.

• Access to state-of-the-art robotic platforms, simulation environments, and DevOps infrastructure.

• Opportunities for international collaboration and conference participation.

This PhD position offers a unique chance to shape the future of autonomous systems through cutting-edge software and AI research in a highly collaborative academic environment.

Application Requirements

Please submit the following documents to Dr. Sebastiano Panichella (sebastiano.panichella @ unibe.ch):

• CV and cover letter

• Academic transcripts

• Links to code repositories or relevant publications (if available)

• Contact details for 2-3 referees familiar with your research and programming capabilities