Ph.D. Opportunities at the PAI Lab​
Before applying, please check the fundamental requirements for working in the PAI Lab, and if you feel a good fit- go ahead.​
The following Ph.D. candidate positions are currently available: ​
1. Funded Ph.D. candidate position (open until staffed)​ Position Flyer PDF for sharing
Your role:
As a Ph.D. candidate, You will investigate the interplay between the chemistry of functional materials, their fabricability using advanced manufacturing methods, and their robotic functionality. You will focus on synthesizing the physical intelligence of robots, from the foundational material level to functional components (actuation, sensing, power, control), and their co-evolution and integration into soft-robotic systems, guided by learning-based control methods. Your research will encompass the development of functional materials (conventional and sustainable) and the design and fabrication of material-based actuators, sensors, and power components, culminating in their integration into actuator-sensor-power systems. This groundwork will facilitate the application of learning-based methods to control such systems and lead to the full automation and creation of soft intelligent robots for future human-robot-nature ecosystems.
Estimated position start date: as soon as possible, but not later than November 1, 2024.​
Your profile (mandatory skills):
• You have a proven track record of excellence in your undergraduate and graduate studies
• You are interested in leading the development of the physical intelligence of robots’ bodies
• You have significant experience in polymer chemistry and functional materials, particularly for soft robotics applications
• You are passionate about multidisciplinary research – from materials to systems and robots
• You possess excellent communication skills in both spoken and written English
To apply:​
Please directly email Dr. Aslan Miriyev (miriyev@bgu.ac.il) with the email title "PhD position in your lab." In your email, please include all the following PDF files:
• A detailed CV including a list of publications and names and contact details of three (3) references
• An official and up-to-date list of grades
• A short video (up to 3 minutes, in English) introducing yourself, describing your studies program and experience so far, and your motivation to join the PAI Lab.
2. Non-funded Ph.D. positions (for students with their own obtained scholarship)
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The general topics of interest are soft matter chemistry and its application in soft robotics, biohybrid robotics, zero-footprint eco-robotics, bio-integrated design of eco-friendly soft robotics, bio-integrated energy sources for robotics, soft actuator-sensor-computation loops, and learning-based control of functional matter. ​​
To apply:​
Please directly email Dr. Aslan Miriyev (miriyev@bgu.ac.il) with the email title "PhD position in your lab with my own scholarship." In your email, please include all the following PDF files:
• A detailed CV including a list of publications and names and contact details of three (3) references
• An official and up-to-date list of grades
• A short video (up to 4 minutes, in English) introducing yourself, describing your studies program and experience so far, your obtained scholarship covering the potential Ph.D. studies, and your motivation to join the PAI Lab.
