Postdoctoral Fellowship in Autonomous Driving Systems | Department of Mechanical Engineering

American University of Sharjah; Sharjah; On-site; AED 146,000 - 184,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the UAE is seeking a candidate for a postdoctoral research fellowship in autonomous driving systems. Responsibilities include leading the development of trajectory prediction algorithms, designing AI solutions, and publishing research. Ideal candidates will have a PhD in a related field and a strong publication record. Experience with machine learning, robotics, and programming in Python and C++ is essential. The position is open until filled.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field awarded in 2020 or later.
• Strong publication record in autonomous vehicles or related areas.

Responsibilities

• Develop and test hybrid trajectory prediction algorithms.
• Design AI/ML solutions for driving behavior prediction.
• Publish research and supervise graduate assistants.

Skills

Machine Learning

Robotics

AI

Decision-making systems

Coding in Python

C++

MATLAB

Debugging

Collaboration

Education

PhD in Mechanical/Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics, AI, or related field

Tools

ROS2

Docker

Git

Job description

Position Summary

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) is inviting applications for a one-year postdoctoral research fellowship in autonomous driving systems and artificial intelligence, as part of a funded research project on lane-changing for autonomous vehicles.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the development and testing of hybrid trajectory prediction algorithms and high-level decision-making models.
• Design and implement advanced AI/ML/RL solutions for real-time driving behavior prediction and maneuver planning.
• Integrate models in simulation environments (e.g., CARLA, SUMO) and validate on real autonomous platforms.
• Publish high-quality journal papers and present at top-tier conferences.
• Supervise and collaborate with graduate research assistants and students.

Qualifications And Skills Required

• PhD in Mechanical/Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics, AI, or a related field.
• Awarded degree in 2020 or later from a reputable university.
• Strong publication record in areas such as autonomous vehicles, trajectory prediction, decision-making, reinforcement learning, or estimation theory.

Preferred Qualifications And Skills

• Deep understanding of the autonomous navigation stack: sensing, perception and localization, planning, and control.
• Proven experience designing decision-making systems for autonomous vehicles or ground robots.
• Deep understanding of decision paradigms: utility-based, rule-based, probabilistic, optimization, statistical learning, and reinforcement learning.
• Strong experience with behavior trees, state machines, and planning frameworks.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, C++, and Python; strong debugging and profiling skills.
• Hands‑on experience with ROS2, Docker, Git, and field robotics development on Linux systems.
• Solid grasp of software design patterns and scalable architecture principles.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to navigate ambiguity in complex, dynamic systems.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills in interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong debugging and analytical skills, with experience validating systems in both simulated and real‑world environments.
• Hands‑on experience with mobile robots (e.g., Robotnik RB-Car) is an advantage.

How To Apply

• Interested applicants should fill out the form. The position is open until it is filled.
• AUS alumni are encouraged to apply. Applicants who do not meet specified requirements will not be shortlisted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• AUS is an equal opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, gender, religion, national origin, disability or marital status. Opportunities for employment are based solely upon one’s qualifications.