PhD position available at the Computer Vision Laboratory, BIWI/CVL - ETH 
Zurich

Title: Evaluation of facial (e)motions from video sequences

Closing date: April 20, 2007.

Topic description:
In the context of a European Research project, our lab is looking for a
PhD student who will develop algorithms to analyse facial expressions from
video sequences. The goal is to recognize such expressions irrespective
of
- Realistic (i.e. spontaneous and subtle) expressions rather than the
   caricature type of expressions usually studied
- Head pose variations (out-of-plane rotation)
- Lighting variations
The recognized facial expressions will be described via a 
meta-representation which will then be used in a next step to animate
a virtual face. The results will enable computers to automatically
annotate movies and video productions with the emotions acted out
in the different scenes, and will help to improve the interactions
between people and machines.

There is some flexibility in where the focus of the work will be laid and
personal initiative is encouraged. The research is carried out in an
international context, which will enable the candidate to have regular
interactions with other research teams throughout Europe and beyond.

Skills:
The ideal candidate will have a M.Sc. or equivalent in Computer Science (or
related subjects such as physics, mathematics, electronic engineering or in
cognitive sciences). Knowledge in the areas of image analysis and/or facial
expressions is a plus. Candidates are expected to have some experience 
with programming in C++.

Salary / Duration:
The position is offered for 3 years. The salary levels for the 3 years are
approximately 62kCHF, 66kCHF, and 70kCHF / year, respectively.

Location:
The PhD work will be carried out at the Computer Vision Lab (BIWI), Dept.
of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering of the ETH Zurich,
http://www.vision.ee.ethz.ch.

Person to contact:
If you are interested, please contact Prof. Luc Van Gool
e-mail vangool@vision.ee.ethz.ch