University West is looking for a Postdoctoral position in Flexible Automation

Research within the Industrial Automation research environment focuses on smart and human-centered automation, with a particular emphasis on flexibility, including through the use of multi-agent systems (MAS) and Plug & Produce. The goal is to develop a deeper understanding of control strategies and their impact on system flexibility and human interaction. In the long term, the research aims to develop flexible and intelligent production systems that can, to a high degree, understand goals and adapt autonomously. The activities are carried out in close collaboration with Swedish industry.

In addition to research, the division conducts teaching in automation across several programmes (Automation Engineering at the undergraduate level, Robotics and Automation at the master’s level, and AI and Automation at the master’s level), as well as standalone courses and commissioned education for students and professionals.

We are now seeking a postdoctoral researcher who wants to contribute to the development of flexible automation, particularly in relation to multi-agent systems and Plug & Produce. The candidate will work in our ongoing and upcoming research projects in collaboration with Swedish industry.

Responsibilities and Description:

• Develop and implement methods that link automation to global sustainability goals and create solutions that benefit both industry and the environment.
• In collaboration with other researchers, participate in applying for external research funding for the research group.
• In collaboration with other researchers, contribute to and disseminate research results through participation in project meetings, networking events, conferences, and scientific publications.
• Supervise and examine student thesis work to support the next generation of engineering talent.
• Actively contribute to the development of courses and educational programmes at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.
• Actively contribute to the development of the department and University West.

Qualifications:

Eligible for appointment as a postdoctoral researcher is someone who has completed a doctoral degree or who has equivalent scientific competence. This qualification requirement must be met by the time the appointment decision is made. Preferably, the person should have completed their doctoral degree no more than three years before the appointment decision is made. In special circumstances, such a degree may have been completed earlier. The default for a postdoctoral appointment is full-time employment. For more information, please refer to the postdoctoral agreement on the Swedish Agency for Government Employers' website.

In addition, the following is required for this position:

• Doctoral degree in production engineering, automation, or equivalent.
• Strong collaborative ability, both internally at University West and externally with other universities and Swedish industry.
• Ability to present scientific results and write scientific publications.
• Experience in teaching within the field of automation and robotics.

Merits for the Position Include:

• Experience in applying for external research funding from different funding bodies.
• Documented experience within the field of flexible production and multi-agent systems.
• Experience supervising students at undergraduate and advanced levels within automation and robotics.

Additional Information:

A postdoc appointment is a time-limited position primarily focused on research and intended as a first career step after obtaining a doctoral degree. In addition to what is stipulated by the Employment Protection Act (1982:80), a postdoctoral researcher can be employed indefinitely, but for a minimum of two and a maximum of three years. Extensions may be granted for special reason.

The selection process may involve sample lectures, work samples, interviews, and reference checks.

Applications should be submitted digitally through our recruitment tool. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring that your application is complete in accordance with the advertisement and that it reaches the university by the application deadline. Materials that cannot be submitted digitally, such as books and publications, should be marked with reference number R 2026/111 and sent in one copy. For information on how to format your application, please see the Application Guidelines on the University West website.

Applications should be addressed to:
University West
HR
461 86 Trollhättan

The application deadline is 2026-06-26.

If you want to learn more about the Swedish Academia please visit:
https://sverigesungaakademi.se/en/publications/a-beginners-guide-to-swedish-academia/

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Welcome with your application!