The Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus - Senftenberg will launch new thematic clusters in the Graduate Research School (GRS) as part of the strategy to strengthen the research profile of BTU.  Thematic clusters are flexible units that shall contribute to the creation of critical masses in the core research areas of BTU. At the same time they are an important instrument of promoting young researchers.

Against this backdrop the BTU will establish in October 2016 the thematic cluster “Cognitive Dependable Cyber Physical Systems“ (CD - CPS).  Successful applicants are expected to begin their research in October 2016 and the scholarship will be tenable for 36 months. The amount of the scholarship is 1,200 euros per month. The GRS will also offer child support for Ph.D. students with children. Successful candidates will have access to additional funding of the GRS for their doctoral research (e.g. mobility grants etc.).

Doctoral studies may be organized within a program of structured doctoral studies towards a “Ph.  D.  in Dependable Hardware / Software Systems”.  Optionally, doctoral students may work towards a “Dr.-Ing.” or a “Dr. rer. nat” degree.

The cluster’s research focuses on technical systems that have the ability to perceive, interpret, think, and act intelligently and reliably. These systems need cognitive abilities, such as extracting and interpreting information from complex, noisy, and possibly incomplete data –- often coming from different types of sensor. This information also must be integrated with existing knowledge in order to make informed decisions which guide the system’s behavior, including about how to interact with humans. One critical system function is to monitor system parameters in order to make decisions regarding dependability, reliability, safety, and security. This can help achieve a high degree of “error resilience”.  These systems must be trustworthy, dependable, and reliable, especially since they are increasingly being embedded in many aspects of everyday life.  The cluster works closely with the Leibniz Institute for Innovative Micorelectronics (IHP).  Additional Information about the cluster and the funding program can found at website of the GRS:  <www.b-tu.de/researchschool/> .

Applicants should have successfully completed a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science/Informatics, Cognitive Science or a related field.  Although the language of working environment and the dissertation is usually German, English is also possible with the consent of the advisor.  In addition to the usual application materials (letter of application, CV or résumé, copies of academic degrees), all applicants should send a letter of motivation and a research proposal. The research proposal should be no more than 5 pages, be based on one of the proposed Ph.D.  topics listed on the Cluster’s GRS website, and describe past experience or work in the area.

Please note that the cluster only accepts complete applications. The application deadline is August 15, 2016.

For further information or to submit your application (preferably via email as one PDF), please contact:

Prof. Dr. Douglas W. Cunningham BTU Cottbus - Senftenberg  Tel.: +49 (0) 355 69 3816  E-Mail: douglas.cunningham@b-tu.de