Faculty IV - Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Reference number: SCIoI-C5-49
starting at 01/05/23 until 30/04/2026; applications deadline 24/11/22; salary grade E 13 TV-L
The Cluster of Excellence “Science of Intelligence (SCIoI)” is a highly interdisciplinary, Berlin-based research center that investigates intelligence, both biological and artificial in an ethically responsible way. The center is home to researchers from many disciplines, including psychology, neuroscience, behavioral biology, robotics, vision, ML, control, and AI. This position is part of this Cluster of Excellence.
Toward a Science of Building Robotic Systems
Research in robotics is emphasizing the development of component technologies. But the robustness and generality of robotic systems greatly depend on the interactions that arise among these components in the context of real-world applications. What is missing is a systematic understanding of how to go about integrating component technologies into function systems. This understanding will lead to the extension and adaptation of engineering practices.
Working field:
The goal of this project is to devise learning methods for complex problem solving in robots. As a benchmark domain, we consider mechanical puzzles that must be actuated in the right sequence to be solved. We take inspiration from cockatoos solving the same mechanical puzzles. These birds learn robust problem-solving strategies with very little data. We collaborate with behavioral biologists to understand the underlying principles realized in the birds’ behavior. The project leverages these principles to serve as an inductive bias for robotic learning. The project will thus produce novel innovative, biologically-inspired learning methods to generate complex, general, and robust robot behavior. Contributions are expected to robotics, machine learning, and behavioral biology.
Requirements:
· MS degree in computer science or similar field
· Research experience in robotics, machine learning, computer vision, and/or control
· Interest in interdisciplinary research in the context of the Center of Excellence “Science of Intelligence”
· Excellent software engineering and programming skills in Python and C++
· Excellent English writing and communication skills
Candidates should upload their application, indicating the reference number SCIoI-C5-49, preferably via the "Apply" button below, to receive full consideration.
Applications should include: motivation letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts of records (for both BSc and MSc), copies of degree certificates (BSc, MSc, PhD if applicable), proof of English skills, abstracts of Bachelor-, Master- and (if applicable) PhD-thesis, list of publications and one selected manuscript (if applicable), two names of qualified persons who are willing to provide references, and any documents candidates feel may help us assess their competence.
By submitting your application via email, you consent to having your data electronically processed and saved. Please note that we do not provide a guaranty for the protection of your personal data when submitted as unprotected file. Please find our data protection notice acc. DSGVO (General Data Protection Regulation) at the TU staff department homepage:
https://www.abt2-t.tu-berlin.de/menue/themen_a_z/datenschutzerklaerung/ or quick access 214041.
To ensure equal opportunities between women and men, applications by women with the required qualifications are explicitly desired. Qualified individuals with disabilities will be favored. The TU Berlin values the diversity of its members and is committed to the goals of equal opportunities.
The vacancy is also available on the internet at https://www.personalabteilung.tu-berlin.de/menue/jobs/
Please go here for the legally binding German version of this job advertisement.
