The Institute of Visual Computing & Human-Centered Technology at Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join the IVILPC research project. The three-year project aims to overcome the challenges of efficiently rendering large point cloud data sets for a range of practical, real-world use cases. Current rendering solutions struggle to keep up with the rapid advances in 3D scene capturing and the explosion of accessible, highly-detailed point cloud models. Machine learning approaches that rely on (differentiable) rendering routines are similarly limited by the sheer size of the input point clouds. The IVILPC project will make such 3D data sets instantly usable by developing new algorithmic designs, data structures, and exploiting the parallel processing power of modern GPUs. In the course of the project, the candidate is expected to explore one or more of the following research directions:
- Developing high-performance rasterization solutions to enable real-time rendering of massive point clouds
- Enabling interactive exploration of captured point cloud data (such as LIDAR scans) with domain experts from different fields
- Efficient visualization of large point cloud data on weaker/mobile devices, including phones and head-mounted displays
- Advancing point-based machine learning and optimization through novel, differentiable rendering solutions
The candidate will collaborate with two experienced PostDocs in the field of point cloud rendering and GPU programming. The candidate is expected to show self-initiative and develop the necessary skills to excel in scientific research, with the aim of completing their thesis within the project's 3-year timeframe.
Requirements
- A Master's degree in Computer Science, Telematics, Visual Computing, or a related field.
- Solid knowledge of computer graphics.
- Interest in interdisciplinary research and good teamwork skills.
- Good programming skills in C++ or a similar language.
- Fluency in English.
Plus Points
- Familiarity with CUDA or a modern graphics API with compute capabilities.
- Experience with developing for mobile or head-mounted display devices.
- Intermediate/advanced knowledge of machine learning or optimization methods.
Applications
To submit your application, please use our upload portal.
The preliminary deadline for applications is May 20th, 2023, 23:59 CET. The official project start is July 1st, but the starting date for the PhD candidate is flexible. Applicants should submit the following documents:
- Motivational Letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- List of successfully completed, higher-education courses relevant to the project goals
- Digital copies of their Bachelor's and Master's certificate
- A digital copy of their Master's thesis
TU Wien is committed to increasing female employment in leading scientific positions. Female candidates are explicitly encouraged to apply. Preference will be given when equally qualified.
People with special needs are equally encouraged to apply. In case of any questions, please get in touch with the confidant for disabled persons at the university (contact: gerhard.neustaetter@tuwien.ac.at).
Work Conditions and Environment
Technische Universität Wien, generally referred to as TU Wien, is located in the heart of Europe, a place where one can experience cultural diversity and international life. Research, teaching, and learning have been conducted here in the service of progress for 200 years. TU Wien is amongst Europe’s most successful universities of technology and, with over 30,000 students and a staff of about 5,000, is Austria’s largest scientific and engineering research and education institution.
The full-time position (40 hours/week) will be part of the Rendering and Modeling Group at the Institute of Visual Computing & Human-Centered Technology. The group carries out basic and applied research in photorealistic rendering, real-time rendering, geometric modeling, and visualization. Depending on their research focus, the candidate will be supervised by Prof. Eduard Gröller and/or Prof. Michael Wimmer, with support from Dr. Bernhard Kerbl and Dr. Markus Schütz. The institute has a stimulating and highly enjoyable working environment in a competitive, internationally-oriented research group with approximately thirty people including professors, PhDs, and graduate students. The interdisciplinary context of the project offers opportunities for collaboration across various fields, including geology, architecture, and cultural heritage.
