CSIRO Industry PhD Scholarship - Training Humanoid Robots for High-Risk Applications using Large and Small AI Models

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Griffith University in partnership with CSIRO invites expressions of interest for a CSIRO Industry PhD Scholarship on Training Humanoid Robots for High-Risk Applications. The project combines computer vision, AI models, formal reasoning and reinforcement learning to enable safe goal-driven robot actions in hazardous environments, with hands-on work on robotics platforms in explosive disposal, mining and construction, in collaboration with Dr Zhe Hou, Dr Ernest Foo and Cyborg Dynamics Engineering. The role is three days at Nathan campus and two days with the industry partner. Eligibility Australian or NZ citizens or permanent residents with first-class honours or Master’s, plus Python proficiency. Email [email protected] by 24 July 2026 5pm AEST with a suitability statement, a research proposal, evidence of grades, CV and two referees. Stipend around $48k per year indexed for four years plus up to $13k for project funds. Preferred applicants will be invited to apply online.

Company Description

Griffith University’s School of Information and Communication Technology delivers industry-focused teaching and research across artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, software engineering, robotics and digital technologies. Its researchers develop intelligent systems that address real-world challenges, supported by strong partnerships with industry, government and the wider community.

The supervisors for this PhD Project will be Dr Zhe Hou and Dr Ernest Foo.

Job Description

We are currently looking for a PhD candidate to develop trustworthy artificial intelligence for humanoid robots operating in hazardous environments. The primary focus of this role is to integrate computer vision, large and small AI models, formal reasoning, reinforcement learning, and robot control so that humanoid robots can interpret mission goals, plan safe actions, and perform complex manipulation tasks. This CSIRO Industry PhD project includes hands-on research using robotic platforms, multimodal sensors, simulation environments, and industry-relevant scenarios in explosive ordnance disposal, mining, and construction. Success in this role requires close collaboration with researchers and engineers from Griffith University, CSIRO, and Cyborg Dynamics Engineering.

This position is based primarily at Griffith University’s Brisbane South (Nathan) campus for three days per week, with the remaining two days spent at our industry partner, Cyborg Dynamics. As Griffith is a multi-campus University you may be required to work across other campus locations. Griffith University’s sites are located on the lands of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera, Turrbal, Yugambeh and Kombumerri peoples.

Qualifications

The selection of applicants for higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University considers academic merit and research experience. To succeed in this role, you will have a strong background in artificial intelligence, computer science, robotics, machine learning, or a related field, together with proficiency in Python and modern machine learning frameworks. You will demonstrate a passion for robotics and trustworthy AI, strong problem-solving and communication skills, and a desire to undertake industry-engaged research in computer vision, reinforcement learning, embodied intelligence, and autonomous systems.

• Expressions of interest are welcome from Australian or New Zealand citizens, or Australian permanent residents ONLY.
• Applicants must have completed a Bachelor’s degree with honours equivalent to first-class honours, or a Master’s degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a Bachelor honours degree, or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Policy. For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program, refer here.
• Applicants should have an academic background in robotics and AI.

Additional Information

About the scholarship
This scholarship offers a generous stipend of $48,071 per annum (indexed) for four years, based on the 2026 rate, plus additional funding for project expenses and professional development starting from $13,000 per year (indexed).

What Griffith offers
As a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).

EOI Process
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to [email protected], containing:

• Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
• Brief research proposal, maximum 2 pages
• Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the ‘About you’ section
• A curriculum vitae (CV)
• Names and contact details of two referees

Closing date for expressions of interest is: Friday 24 July 2026 at 5pm AEST.

The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line

For project related enquiries please contact:
Dr Zhe Hou
Email: [email protected]

For administration enquiries please contact:
The PhD Partnerships Team
Email: [email protected]