Senior Researcher - Artificial intelligence platform for advanced marine vessel design

Company Description

Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) at the University of Zagreb is the leading Croatian higher education institution for electrical engineering, computer science, and information and communication technologies. With more than 4,000 students and over 700 lecturers, research associates, and staff members, FER offers a dynamic and multidisciplinary academic environment. The faculty is strongly research-oriented, with numerous projects and collaborations in advanced engineering and computing domains. Candidates joining FER can expect access to modern laboratories, international partnerships, and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research. The culture supports innovation, teamwork, and the development of practical solutions with real-world impact.Role Description:As part of the new research and development project "Advanced platform for complete design of vessels supported by machine learning algorithms - Maritime mAInd" we are looking for an senior researcher who will work on the development of advanced methods of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to support the design, analysis and optimization of vessels.This full-time, on-site role in Zagreb, Croatia involves designing and implementing algorithms for vessel performance modeling, data-driven design tools, and intelligent decision-support systems.Day-to-day responsibilities include conducting independent and collaborative research, publishing results in high-impact journals and conferences, supervising junior researchers and students, and contributing to project proposals and grant applications. The Senior Researcher will work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including naval architecture, computer science, and engineering experts, to translate research findings into prototypes and software modules. The senior researcher will participate in defining the research methodology; processing and analyzing design, structural, technical, and simulation data; developing artificial intelligence models; and evaluating and integrating these models into an advanced software platform for vessel design. The role also includes presenting research outcomes to industry partners and academic audiences, and supporting the integration of research outputs into advanced design platforms.

Qualifications

At least 3 years of work experience in the field.Demonstrated expertise in AI, machine learning and deep learning, preferably applied to complex engineering or marine systems.Strong skills in data analysis and optimization methods relevant to vessel design and performance evaluation.Proficiency in programming (e.g., C#.NET, Python), use of AI/ML frameworks (e.g., scikit-learn, NumPy, SciPy, PyTorch, pandas), and software development for research prototypes.Experience in research project leadership, including designing experimental studies, supervising junior team members, and managing collaborative research activities.Track record of peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or industry reports in AI, engineering, or related fields.Diploma degree (PhD preferred) in computer science, electrical engineering, naval architecture, or a closely related discipline.Experience engaging with industry partners, preparing research project proposals, and contributing to funded projects is highly beneficial.Ability to design and conduct scientific research and prepare high-quality scientific and professional publications.Active knowledge of English and excellent knowledge of Croatian.Ability to work as part of a team on-site in Zagreb, Croatia.Preference will be given to candidates who have:Advanced experience developing and applying machine learning and deep learning models for data classification, regression, and prediction.Experience designing comprehensive research and development software solutions and integrating models into prototype- or production-level computing systems.Experience developing algorithms for decision support, design optimization, or automation of engineering processes.Experience working with large language models, including Hugging Face, OpenAI, Gemini, Anthropic, local models, RAG systems, vector databases, and agentic system orchestration.Experience working with simulation environments, fluid dynamics, computer graphics, geometric modeling, CAD/CAE tools, or other methods relevant to the design and analysis of technical objects.Published scientific or professional papers in computer science, AI, technical systems, shipbuilding, or related interdisciplinary areas.A publicly available GitHub portfolio or demonstrations of AI models.Offer:Opportunity to work on an innovative project with significant technological and societal impact.The gross monthly salary for this position is 3,150.00 EUR (“bruto 1”).A stimulating academic and research environment.Collaboration with experts in AI, deep learning, natural language processing, and software engineering.Support for professional development, conference participation, and scientific advancement.Possibility of enrolling in a postgraduate doctoral study program free of charge.Possibility of continued employment depending on project progress.More information: (in Croatian)🔗 https://www.fer.unizg.hr/karijere/ponuda_poslova?@=33qqj