Researcher (Postdoc) in Off-Road SLAM and Advanced Perception
The University of Twente wants to be an organisation that effectively deploys diversity, talents, and capabilities in the labour market for now and in the future. In the framework of our diversity and inclusiveness policy, we strongly stimulate people with a (work) disability to apply for this position.
The University of Twente is committed to providing a working environment where everyone is valued, respected, and supported to progress. Our priority is to ensure that no one is disadvantaged based on their ethnicity, gender, culture, disability, LGBTQ+ identities, family and caring responsibilities, age, or religion. We encourage everyone who shares these values to apply.
Are you passionate about autonomous systems and advanced perception techniques? We offer an exciting postdoctoral position, in collaboration with Demcon, focusing on off-road SLAM using lidar, camera, and IMU.
Do you have a deep understanding of semantic segmentation, SLAM, sensor fusion (lidar, camera, IMU), embedded programming, and/or real-time computing? Are you ready to push the boundaries of autonomous navigation in challenging environments like forests and off-road terrains? Join our innovative project where simulated data and real hardware testing create innovative solutions.
The work builds on our recent results.
You will be at the forefront of developing advanced perception systems, using deep learning and simulation-to-real domain adaptation techniques. You will work with a multidisciplinary team, contributing to fundamental and applied research. Your role will involve designing and implementing algorithms. Testing with actual robotic platforms is handled by Demcon. Innovative simulation data is used for both training and testing.
The project is in parallel with our dedication to teaching perception in our MSc Robotics programme and MSc Geo-information programme, offering you also the chance to mentor and inspire the next generation of engineers (all teaching is fully optional). This is a unique opportunity to blend academic research with real-world applications, supported by a leading company in the industry.
After successful employment at the University of Twente, it is possible to discuss a (part-time) position at Demcon.
Information and application
For more information about the position, please contact Dr Ville Lehtola (email: v.v.lehtola@utwente.nl). You are also invited to visit our institute [homepage](https://www.itc.nl), and the [robotics centre homepage](https://www.utwente.nl/en/robotics/).
For questions about working and living in the Netherlands please consult [the official website of the Netherlands Government](https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/theme/work-in-the-netherlands) or the website of the [Expat Center East Netherlands](https://expatcentereastnetherlands.nl).
Please submit your application before 16 January 2026. Your application should include:
- A motivation letter (maximum 2 pages of A4), emphasising your specific interest, qualifications and motivation to apply for this position.
- Curriculum Vitae with a full list of publications, and two references with their contact details.
- A short description (150 – 250 words) of your PhD research and a copy of your PhD diploma. If you are in the final stage, then a letter from your PhD supervisor, stating the date of PhD defence, is also sufficient.
Interviews will be held before the 30th of January 2026. If possible, the employment will start on the 1st of March 2026.
Screening is part of the selection procedure.
About the organisation
The Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC) provides international postgraduate education, research and project services in the field of geo-information science and earth observation. Our mission is capacity development, where we apply, share and facilitate the effective use of geo-information and earth observation knowledge and tools for tackling global wicked problems. Our purpose is to enable our many partners around the world to track and trace the impact – and the shifting causes and frontiers – of today’s global challenges. Our vision is of a world in which researchers, educators, and students collaborate across disciplinary and geographic divides with governmental and non-governmental organisations, institutes, businesses, and local populations to surmount today’s complex global challenges and to contribute to sustainable, fair, and digital societies.
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