PhD on Deep Learning Perception for Automotive 4D Imaging Radar

Position PhD-student

Irène Curie Fellowship No

Department(s) Electrical Engineering

FTE 1,0

Date off 15/05/2024

Reference number V36.7369

Job description

•    Are you inspired by the prospect of shaping the future of autonomous driving?
•    Are you fascinated by the latest developments in self-supervised learning and generative models?
•    Are you excited to work on perception tasks for safety-critical systems using the next-generation automotive radar?
•    Then apply for the PhD position on Deep Learning Perception for Automotive 4D Imaging Radar!

Autonomous driving is a key application of artificial intelligence generally, and vehicle perception specifically. Contemporary autonomous driving systems utilize various sensors, such as cameras, radar, and LiDAR. Recent developments in automotive radar technology have led to the emergence of a new class of sensors, 4D Imaging Radar. This technology can be a key enabler for Level 4 and Level 5 autonomy due to its additional vertical information, high density, and robustness.

Consequently, this requires the development of novel deep-learning methods that can process Imaging radar data on resource-constrained devices, and perform standard automotive perception tasks, such as object detection and collision prediction.  Moreover, due to the real-life complexity of such tasks in urban conditions, and the many edge cases that can be encountered, it is practically impossible to gather all-encompassing training data.

This PhD project is designed to research various deep-learning methods to perform vehicle perception tasks, such as collision risk prediction, using imaging radar data. The aim is to increase the generalization capabilities of those prediction models for rarely occurring scenarios. To this end, it will be necessary to not only consider mathematical and technical details of deep learning but also the understanding of signal processing systems and working principles of 4D Imaging radar technology.

More specifically, research tasks will include:

• Reviewing relevant literature from the deep learning architectures for signal processing, radar-based and computer vision-based automotive perception, and domain invariance/resilience.
• Designing methods for domain invariant deep representations of radar-specific embeddings.
• Developing learning strategies capable of learning from auxiliary simulated data for real-life applications.
• Collaborating on ongoing research projects that aim to implement radar-based perception methods for next-generation ADAS and autonomous driving.

An ideal candidate will combine technical expertise in deep learning, signal processing, and automotive sensing. You are strongly interested in the application of next-generation radar technology and robust perception in the context of road participants’ safety. Next, you have good programming experience and are passionate about artificial intelligence, computer science, and autonomous driving.

The candidate will be integrated into the Mobile Perception Systems (MPS) lab within a newly forming Automated Vehicle Test Facility (AVTF). You will actively collaborate with NXP researchers.

Job requirements

• A master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in artificial intelligence, signal processing, computer science, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrable interest and/or experience in automotive sensor technologies, robotics perception, and programming.
• A research-oriented attitude of an ever-curious mind
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with industrial partners.
• Motivated to develop teaching skills and coach students.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (e.g. C1 level).

Conditions of employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months. You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. €2,770 max. €3,539).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.

Information and application

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow. 

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more?
Please contact the hiring manager Dr. Gijs Dubbelman, g.dubbelman@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services, email HRServices.Flux@tue.nl.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button.
The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications.
• Two recommendation letters.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.