In this video Prof. Red Whittaker from Carnegie Mellon University, presents our common project on Multi-modal characterization of nuclear facilities. 

Our lab website is now ready. Learn more: ​http://www.autonomousrobotslab.com/

The following are ongoing preliminary results on our work on multi-modal fusion. 

​These are preliminary results on exploration and mapping inside a tunnel with approximate dimensions of WIDTHxHEIGHTxLENGTH = 3x4x30m. The robot navigated along half of it (approximately) and our team evaluated the capability of localization and mapping using NIR camera/IMU, as well as Laser Time-of-Flight sensors. 

For the element of VI-localization we are using ROVIO developed at ASL, ETH Zurich: https://github.com/ethz-asl/rovio 

The nightvision cameras are supported with appropriately synchronized LEDs.

This result corresponds to preliminary work in the field of autonomous exploration and mapping in visually-degraded environments.

Our full-day workshop proposal on "Autonomous Structural Monitoring and Maintenance using Aerial Robots", organized by Kostas Alexis (corresponding organizer), Markus W. Achtelik, Gianluca Antonelli, Margarita Chli, Anibal Ollero, Roland Siegwart, Kimon Valavanis was accepted as a full-day workshop at ICRA 2017. Further details will be posted on:  http://www.aerial-monitoring-maintenance-workshop.com/ 

Our paper:

• Christos Papachristos, Kostas Alexis, "Autonomous Detection and Classification of Change using Aerial Robots", IEEE Aerospace Conference, 2017, Yellowstone Conference Center, Big Sky, Montana, March 4-11, 2017

just got accepted!

Our lab worked together with the Robotics Institute of of Carnegie Mellon University (Dr. Red Whitaker, Dr. Sebastian Scherer) and successfully got awarded the following project!

• NRI: Collaborative Research: Multi-Modal Characterization of DOE-EM Facilities - this National Robotics Initiative project is funded by DOE and aims to provide new autonomous robotic systems to monitor, inspection and multi-modal (Rad/Chem/3D) map nuclear facilities. 

Our lab had a day-long meeting with NSTec from the Nevada National Security Site and gave a demo of Autonomous Exploration and Mapping in Unknown GPS-denied environments. The goal is to develop advanced robotic systems capable of addressing the challenging needs of nuclear monitoring in terms of multi-modal data, visually-degraded environments, robustness and safety. 

I was honored to be invited to give a talk within the framework of the Carnegie Mellon University, Robotics Institute Seminars. Below the video of the talk.

WE ARE LOOKING FOR an excellent and motivated researcher with a strong background in ground robotics and emphasis in one of the fields of a) computer vision, or b) path planning, or c) control systems to join and play a leading role at the Center Synchronized and Sustainable Mobility (CSSM), recently established at the University of Nevada, Reno. The postdoctoral researcher can expect a full-time position with a highly competitive salary, in a motivated research team offering excellent infrastructure and environment. The center brings together multiple faculty in our university and this postdoctoral position offers the opportunity to engage with a number of high-impact collaborations with academia and industry. 

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE will have a PhD degree from a recognized university (or will be close to completion) in a related subject, strong analytical skills and background with experience in ground robotics and specialization in one of the following fields a) computer vision, b) path planning, or c) control. Previous experience in autonomous transportation systems and field robotics work will be considered as a significant plus. Furthermore, it is expected that the candidate has at least one publication at ICRA, RSS, I/ECCV, CVPR, TRO, IJRR, JFR, PAMI or equivalent conferences and journals. Proficient oral and written English skills are expected. For further information contact Prof. Kostas Alexis, kalexis [at] unr.edu . 

Expression of interest may be indicated via e-mail, addressed to Prof. Kostas Alexis (please use title: “PostDoc Application for CSSM”) and include: 

• a full CV, 
• a statement of achievements, research interests and objectives (1-2 pages), 
• the transcripts of all obtained degrees (in English), the names and contact details of three references, and 
• two publications with the applicant as the main contributor (links or PDFs). 

A remote interview to discuss technical specifics may be arranged. 

Formal application is through: https://www.unrsearch.com/ - Department of Computer Science and Engineering: https://www.unrsearch.com/postings/21926

Please note that a “first come, first served” policy is followed in the evaluation of the applications until a suitable candidate is appointed. ​