PhD Studentship in Computer Vision / Machine Learning / Robotics

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING, UNIVERSITY OF CYPRUS

Position: Special Scientist (Research)
No. of Positions: One (1), Full-Time
Category: One (1) year, with the possibility of extension
Location: University of Cyprus, Nicosia

PhD studentship (Special Scientist) Are you an outstanding student with a passion for Computer Vision, Machine Learning or Robotics? Join the internationally recognised Vision for Robotics Lab (V4RL), led by Prof. Dr. Margarita Chli, and contribute to pioneering research in robotic perception and autonomy. We invite applications for a fully funded PhD studentship at the University of Cyprus (UCY), available immediately and offering a highly competitive salary. The position is supported by the prestigious ERC Consolidator Grant “SkEyes”, which investigates next-generation perception and autonomy for intelligent robotic systems. V4RL operates across ETH Zurich and UCY, offering exciting opportunities for international research collaboration. UCY is ranked among the world's top 100 universities in Automation & Control (ShanghaiRanking 2026). The successful candidate will be based at UCY.

The lab At V4RL we develop intelligent perception and autonomy for robots operating in challenging real-world environments, with a particular emphasis on robotic vision and autonomous aerial systems. The lab's highly cited research has delivered pioneering achievements, including the first vision-based autonomous flight of a small helicopter and the first demonstration of collaborative monocular SLAM for small drones. V4RL has earned international recognition through prestigious distinctions, including Amazon Research Awards, and media coverage by Reuters and CNN. The lab offers a vibrant, collaborative research environment, bringing together an international team of Master's, PhD and postdoctoral researchers and maintaining strong partnerships with academic and industrial collaborators. V4RL’s Director Prof. Dr. Margarita Chli was named among Robohub's “25 Women in Robotics You Need to Know About” and is regularly invited to speak at leading international venues, including ICRA, BMVC, TEDx and the World Economic Forum.

Candidate’s profile Applicants should:
• Hold a BSc (or equivalent) and a Master’s degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Have an excellent academic record, particularly in technically relevant subjects.
• Demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, a solid mathematical foundation, and good programming skills.
• Have a strong interest in Computer Vision, Machine Learning or Robotics, preferably supported by relevant coursework, projects or research experience.
• Be proficient in written and spoken English.

How to apply Applicants should submit a single PDF file containing:
1. Motivation & research-fit statement (maximum 1 page, minimum 10 pt font): Explain your motivation for pursuing a PhD at V4RL, describe your most relevant technical or research achievements.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining your education and employment history (if any).
3. Official university transcripts for both Bachelor's and Master's degrees (in Greek, English or German).
4. Contact details of two referees who can comment on your academic performance.

Applications should be submitted by November 23, 2026 via email to [email protected], using the subject line “SKEYES PHD APPLICATION 2026”. Applications that do not follow the above instructions will not be considered.

Employment Terms PhD / Special Scientist positions are offered on a 12-month contract basis with the possibility for extension for the foreseen duration of the PhD studies. The monthly gross salary ranges between to €1840 – €2600 depending on the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate. From the monthly gross salary, the employee’s contributions to the relevant State Funds will be deducted.

Applicants need not be citizens of the Republic of Cyprus. Applicants should however ensure, before applying, that in case they are selected they will be residing in Cyprus on a full-time basis during the employment period. Submission of application implies acceptance of this condition.

The University of Cyprus shall collect and process your personal data according to the provisions of the General Regulation on Personal Data 2016/679 (EU).

At least the best three candidates that satisfy the required qualifications, will be interviewed by a 3-member Committee.

Candidates shall be informed of the result of their application by the relevant entity.

The University of Cyprus (UCY) is committed to promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equality, as well as the elimination of all forms of discrimination in order to provide a fair, safe, and pleasant environment for the entire university community, where students and staff members will feel supported both in their professional and personal development, within and beyond their multiple identities. To this end, UCY seeks to create the necessary conditions that will encourage and respect diversity, and ensure dignity both in the workplace and society at large. Moreover, UCY has adopted specific policies to promote equal opportunities, as well as respect and understanding of diversity, while it is committed to promoting and maintaining a working, teaching, and learning environment, free from any form of discrimination, whether direct or indirect.

The employment of persons who have reached the age of 65 years old, at the commencement date of employment, is prohibited.