A PhD position in Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT) is available in the Embedded Systems Engineering (ESE) research section at DTU Compute. The project title is “Optimizing Port Operations through Edge Computing and AI-Enhanced Digital Infrastructure and it’s part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) network including 7 different partners. The main purpose of the project is to transform European maritime ports into energy hubs by establishing Living Labs Networks across Europe. These networks will enable real life evaluation of sustainable energy innovations and a collaboration between the involved stakeholders. The project seeks to reshape European ports into sustainable energy hubs by driving the development of clean energy technologies and encouraging digital innovation. One of the main objectives is to optimize renewable energy solutions (such as wind, solar, and alternative fuels) and improve digital infrastructure by leveraging smart ports and digital twin technology. The communication and sensing capabilities offered by the (IoUT) are essential components in realizing this vision. The different focus of each partner is facilitating a holistic approach that integrates diverse expertise, enabling the seamless development and implementation of advanced solutions. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to meet and collaborate with the members from other institutes which are part of the MSCA network and expand their network. Being an MSCA PhD fellow enhances career prospects, fosters interdisciplinary skills, and opens pathways to both academic and non-academic sectors.
In this role, you will leverage your expertise in IoT, low-power computing and communication systems to explore IoT architectures and systems applicable to port environments, extending from nearby industries in the hinterland to offshore wind farms, energy islands, and beyond. The position offers opportunities to research communication methods using acoustic, optical, and radio signals for underwater, above-water and battery-free devices, as well as to explore the emerging field of cross-medium communication. There is flexibility in this role, allowing you to focus on various aspects, such as communication technologies, energy efficiency, or system reliability.
As a PhD candidate at DTU Compute, you will work in the Embedded Systems Engineering section and do research in the IoUT field. The PhD candidate will be working on the wider topics of mobile computing in tasks related to the following activities:
· Design an Edge-IoT integrated infrastructure for real-time operational efficiency in ports.
· Develop and deploy underwater/terrestrial IoT systems to support energy-efficient port operations.
· Establish a robust communication and interoperability framework for digital transitions in ports.
You will work with colleagues in the section and in our network of strong academic and industrial partners as well as ports through Living Lab Networks. The successful candidate will be seconded with the Chalmers University of Technology (Sweden) and Danfoss Power Electronics (Denmark) during the project.
Your contributions will include:
· Doing cutting-edge research in IoT and IoUT devices, communication, sensing and computer systems
· Publishing your research in high-impact journals and conferences.
· Collaborating with academic and industrial partners, both nationally and internationally.
· Engaging in the mentorship and supervision of BSc and MSc student projects.
· Contributing to the teaching at the department to get teaching experience.
· Participating actively in the research community, including attending and presenting at conferences.
· Participating to the activities organized by the MSCA Doctoral Network (i.e., summer schools, workshops)
· You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree, ), in a field related to one or more of the general areas of Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Telecommunication, Electronics.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the
excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We
offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We
strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial
respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Asst. Prof. Charalampos Orfanidis, Assoc. Prof. Matthias Bo Stuart and Prof. Paul Pop, head of Embedded Systems Engineering section at DTU Compute. You can read more here about working in our section, at DTU and in Denmark.
Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary (Denmark) for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than May 31st, 2025.
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file.
Note: An application link will be available by the end of January 2025.
The file must include:
The candidate is expected to have a strong background on computer programming, computer communication and electronics. A comprehensive MSc thesis in a relevant field and/or previous publications are highly valued.
You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
We will review applications and conduct interviews on a rolling basis as they are received. Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible to ensure full consideration. For any inquiries or to express your interest in the position, please contact us promptly.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
Embedded Systems Engineering (ESE) is one of the 10 research section of DTU Compute. Our mission encompasses the creation of insights that allow the development of context-aware, distributed, and embedded cyber-physical systems, with a particular focus on Internet-of-Things (IoT) and the computing continuum eras. Our vision is to pioneer advancements in high-tech distributed and embedded systems technology, driving change, and contributing positively to society. We strive for a future where our research and innovations form the cornerstone of technological advancements, and we're excited to include more brilliant minds in our journey. See our publications and projects here.
DTU Compute is an internationally unique academic environment spanning the science disciplines mathematics, statistics, computer science, and engineering. We conduct research of high international standard that is at the forefront with the development of new knowledge and technology-based solutions to the societal challenges of the digital society where communication technologies are a part of every industry, service, and human endeavor.
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