Sunday, November 27, 2011

Computer Vision PhD scholarships for a robot pruning project


Applications are invited for two PhD scholarships at the University of Canterbury in the field of Computer Vision. These posts are part of the MSI funded project 'Vision-Based Automated Pruning' which aims to develop a robot system for pruning plants. As members of the project team the successful applicants will have the opportunity to combine leading computer vision research with a challenging real-world application.

    The PhD student will work closely with a team of mathematicians, engineers, and computer scientists on a commercially-oriented project. The project provides an excellent opportunity to develop skills which are in high demand in both academia and industry, including scientific software engineering and the application of mathematics, statistics, and the latest algorithms. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in either mathematics or computer science, will have the ability to learn a range of new skills and keep up-to-date with the latest research, and will have the enthusiasm and motivation necessary to conduct innovative research in an exciting and fast-moving field of study.

    Two scholarships are available and cover full fees (for domestic or international students) and a stipend of NZ$30,000 per annum. Additional support for equipment, travel, and conference attendance will also be available through the project. The two key areas of research are:

        Recovery of three-dimensional structure of vines from vision and range-based cameras. We seek to establish a mm-accurate colour depth map of the vines through a combination of multi-camera stereo, range cameras, and sensor fusion.
        Construction of detailed 3D models of the vines from this three-dimensional imagery. This will include models of the branching structure, orientation, and bud locations of the vines, as well as analysis of the images for signs of disease or damage to the vines.

    Successful applicants should have an Honours degree or higher in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Mechatronics or a related discipline and should possess:

        Strong ability in mathematical modelling and analysis.
        Computer programming for scientific applications, preferably with knowledge of C/C++.
        Experience/knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
        Reconstruction of depth from stereo images
        Sensor fusion
        Concurrent and real time image processing
        Numerical optimisation
        Shape analysis and statistical modelling
        Image classification and texture analysis

    For further information please contact Dr Richard Green (richard.green@canterbury.ac.nz)

    Also, to apply please send a CV and supporting documents to Dr Richard Green.

    Applications close December 2011.
To apply:

    Please send a CV and supporting documents to richard.green@canterbury.ac.nz
Application Deadline : 31 December 2011
Contact Adress: richard.green@canterbury.ac.nz
Contact Email: tom.botterill@grcnz.com
Posted on 2011-11-23 23:05:37

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