Be part of shaping the next generation of swarm systems. Here, AI, design, and cognitive science come together in pioneering projects with real societal impact. Take the opportunity to contribute to solutions that can transform both industry and society. We are seeking a PhD candidate for the new national centre for Heterogeneous Adaptive Swarm Systems (CHASS), with a focus on research in human–swarm interaction design.

Your work assignments

The multi-disciplinary center for heterogeneous adaptive swarm systems, CHASS, is a national effort funded by the Swedish Strategic Research Foundation (SSF) to bring together leading researchers in AI, autonomous systems, robotics, and swarm intelligence to develop novel solutions for autonomous heterogeneous swarm systems for the benefit of Swedish industry and society. The vision is to make Sweden a leader in intelligent, adaptive, and trustworthy swarm systems by pioneering autonomous heterogeneous collectives of space, aerial, ground, surface, and underwater platforms that can operate as a unified intelligent entity with minimal human intervention. The research program focuses on six key themes: Drone Design, Adaptation, & Production; Perception, Sensing, & Communication; Autonomy, Localization, Mapping & Navigation; Coordination, Self-Governance, & Self-Improvement; Human Swarm Interaction; and Swarm-based Services & Socio-Technical Aspects.

The PhD position in this announcement focus on research related to human-swarm interaction design. The human-swarm interaction (HSI) theme will focus on research enabling a single human operator or team to effectively supervise and collaborate with a swarm of drones, going beyond the monitoring-intervention paradigm. Research will address design for interactions such as for joint sense-making, transparency, resilience of the human-swarm joint system; operator intent tracking and deontic control.

CHASS will drive world-class research in autonomous swarm systems through a strong, stimulating, and well-connected international research environment. Research outcomes will be validated in real-world scenarios with industry and public-sector partners. CHASS will also serve as a national hub for autonomous swarm systems, promoting education, knowledge sharing, innovation, and policy development.

As a doctoral student, you devote most of your time to doctoral studies and the research projects of which you are part. Your work may also include teaching or other departmental duties, up to a maximum of 20% of full-time.

You are expected to conduct your PHD on Human-Swarm Interaction Design, and to pursue research questions within the area of the project(s) (especially CHASS) that fund the doctoral studies. You are expected to contribute to these projects and take part in project activities. The research is based on cognitive systems as a foundation for design and evaluation, as well as on computer science to build testable prototypes.

Your qualifications

You have graduated at Master’s level in cognitive science, design, computer science or completed courses with a minimum of 240 credits, at least 60 of which must be in advanced courses in cognitive science, computer science, design. Alternatively, you have gained essentially corresponding knowledge in another way.

The applicant is expected to have good knowledge of cognitive science, as well as basic knowledge of programming and research methodology. Knowledge of specific methods and approaches such as cognitive systems, cognitive task analysis, joint control framework, the Python programming language, databases, experience in design and/or evaluation of human-system interaction, are considered merits. Knowledge and experience in generative AI and AI agents are also considered merits.

The position requires a good ability to communicate in English, both spoken and written. Proficiency in Swedish is considered an advantage.

Your workplace

You will be employed at the Department of Science and Technology (ITN), Division of Media and Information Technology, at Linköping University, Campus Norrköping.

Our research focuses on the design of complex cognitive systems, specifically the interaction between humans, AI and automation, for mission-critical processes. These are systems that include at least one human operator, a process to be controlled, and an automation or AI component that must also be controlled. The research is applied to areas such as air traffic control, vessel traffic services, train traffic management, emergency and crisis management. The research is conducted in close collaboration with Swedish and international universities, research institutes and industry partners and includes both simulation-based development and validation in real test environments. Our research group has run major research projects in the area, and is part of national initiatives such as WASP, the WARA Public Safety research arena, the AirMobility testbed. At Linköping University you are also part of the LiU Design network, which connects the design area within the university.

We have the power of over 50,000 students and co-workers. Students who provide hope for the future. Co-workers who contribute to Linköping University meeting challenges of today. Our fundamental values rest on credibility, trust and security. By having the courage to think freely and innovate, our actions together, large and small, contribute to a better world. We look forward to receiving your application!

The employment

When taking up the post, you will be admitted to the program for doctoral studies. More information about the doctoral studies at each faculty is available at Doctoral studies at Linköping University

The employment has a duration of normally four years’ full-time equivalent. Extension of employment up to five years is based on the degree of teaching and institutional assignment. Further extensions may be granted in exceptional circumstances. You will initially be employed for one year, after which your employment will be renewed for a maximum of two years at a time, depending on your progress through the study plan. 

Starting date first of september or by agreement. 

This position may come to be a security classified position. If so, security screening including a records check will be carried out before any decision on employment is made.

Salary and employment benefits

The salary of PhD students is determined according to a locally negotiated salary progression.

More information about employment benefits at Linköping University is available here.

Union representatives

Information about union representatives, see Help for applicants.

Application procedure

Apply for the position by clicking the “Apply” button below. Your application must reach Linköping University no later than June 23rd 2026.

Applications and documents received after the date above will not be considered.