Two Open PhD Positions in Soft Robotics
The Center for Soft Robotics at SDU Biorobotics, University of Southern Denmark, invites applications for two PhD positions within the ERC-funded project “METABOA: Exploring the Unexplored with a Crawling Soft Robot.” The positions are based in Odense, Denmark, with a preferred starting date of June 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.
About METABOA: This project explores the development of autonomous, snake-inspired robots capable of robust locomotion across complex and uncertain environments. Drawing inspiration from biological snakes, the research combines soft and flexible robotic structures with intelligent control to study how body deformation and surface interactions enable agile, adaptive movement. The project emphasizes the integration of novel mechanical designs, sensing at the robot–environment interface, and bioinspired control strategies to allow the robot to perceive and adapt to different terrains. By bridging soft robotics, physical intelligence, and learning-based control, the research aims to advance fundamental understanding of friction-driven, limbless locomotion while contributing to next-generation adaptive robotic systems.
The application deadline is April 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM/23:59 (CET/CEST).
Apply online through the application portal here.
Further information about this position is available via email from Prof. Ahmad Rafsanjani (ahra [at] mmmi [dot] sdu [dot] dk).