Darmstadt: Master's Thesis: Detection of Suggestive Poses and Facial Expressions

Background/Motivation:
For the detection of erotic and pornographic images, models that can recognise human skin, body parts, or scenes are often used. With the help of appropriate datasets [1], classification and object detection models can be trained. However, there are also images that are obviously erotic or pornographic, but cannot be recognised by conventional methods. This applies, for example, to images in which erotic poses or partial sections of pornographic scenes can be recognised. Here, poses and facial expressions can be used for classification, among other things [2].
Objective: The aim of this master's thesis is to investigate whether and to what extent poses and facial expressions can be used to recognise erotic and pornographic imagery. First, it should be researched which existing approaches are suitable for addressing the question. Gaps in existing datasets and models should be described and filled with our own data and models. Based on the developed methods, it should then be evaluated whether (1) reliable detection of erotic poses and facial expressions is possible and (2) whether erotic and pornographic images can be distinguished from other categories based on the detected poses and facial expressions. In this context, different counter classes should be evaluated, such as everyday or sports images.
Results: As part of this master's thesis, the following results are to be achieved:

• Dataset with annotations for the recognition of erotic poses and facial expressions.
• Implementation of new approaches for the classification of poses and facial expressions, both in everyday situations and in erotic and pornographic contexts.
• Evaluation of the models, both regarding the classification of poses and facial expressions as well as the classification of images (pornographic/erotic/normal). 

Be part of change

• Building a dataset for the classification of poses and facial expressions.
• Implementation of new approaches for the detection of erotic and pornographic facial expressions.
• Training of models (CNNs, Vision Transformers).
• Analysis of existing datasets.
• Evaluation of the trained models on suitable datasets. 

What you contribute

• Good knowledge in the field of machine learning and training neural networks.
• Good Python skills, preferably some experience with PyTorch.
• Ideally, knowledge in computer vision and object detection/segmentation.
• Motivation to independently delve into new and current research topics.
• Willingness to work with erotic or pornographic material.
• Interest in scientific research. 

What we offer

• Independent work schedule management
• Insights into the intersection of academic research and industrial application

Related works: 

[1] Phan, D. D. et al., LSPD: A Large-Scale Pornographic Dataset for Detection and Classification —
[2] Gangwar, A. et al., Triple-BigGAN: A Semi-Supervised GAN for Image synthesis and classification applied to detect facial sexual expressions

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities. 

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future. 

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

Fraunhofer Institute for Secure Information Technology SIT

Requisition Number: 82690                Application Deadline: