If you dream of developing the next generation of safe and dependable self-driving vehicles, here’s your chance to turn that vision into research reality. The Clausthal University of Technology (TU Clausthal) in Germany is calling for Doctoral Researchers (m/f/d) in Software Engineering for Dependable AI-Based Automated Driving Systems with Autoware. This fully funded PhD opportunity combines deep academic research with hands-on experimentation using real autonomous shuttles — not just simulations.
A PhD That Drives Itself — Literally
This scholarship opportunity is offered by the Dependable and Autonomous Cyber-physical Systems (DACS) group at TU Clausthal’s Institute for Software and Systems Engineering (ISSE). The research team is building and testing an AI-powered automated shuttle equipped with the Autoware stack, bringing dependable AI-based systems to real public roads.
This is where machine learning meets reliability engineering, and your research won’t stay on paper — it will move on wheels.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out?
This PhD program isn’t just about theory. TU Clausthal offers an environment where your code becomes part of a real-world autonomous driving system. You’ll:
- Develop robust software architectures and prototypes for AI-based driving systems.
- Conduct experiments and safety testing directly on real vehicles.
- Work with modern software engineering tools—agile methods, model-based development, CI/CD pipelines, and ROS2.
- Present and publish research results in top national and international conferences.
You’ll also mentor students and contribute to the university’s teaching ecosystem while advancing your own doctoral studies — making this a complete academic and practical experience.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must hold a Master’s or Diploma degree in:
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Information Systems and Management
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Mathematics
- Or a related field.
Applicants should have:
- Excellent programming skills in Python and C++ (ROS2 experience is a plus).
- Strong knowledge of software architecture, quality assurance, and modern software processes.
- Familiarity with neural networks, CI/CD tools, and agile workflows.
- German (C1) and English proficiency.
Experience with runtime monitoring, automated driving systems, or software testing will give your application a significant edge.
What TU Clausthal Offers?
- A fully funded 3-year PhD position (TV-L E13, 100% salary scale).
- Access to cutting-edge simulation labs and real automated shuttles.
- Collaboration with national and international research and industrial partners.
- A flexible, family-friendly environment with hybrid work options.
- Additional perks like training programs, sports facilities, and even a lounge lab with table soccer for relaxation.
At TU Clausthal, you won’t just write code — you’ll help shape how AI drives safely in the real world.
Application Dates
The application deadline for the Doctoral Researcher positions in Dependable AI-Based Automated Driving Systems at TU Clausthal is 15 November 2025. Successful candidates can begin their research as soon as possible, with a flexible start date within early 2026.