Postdoctoral Research Associate - Midlothian, United Kingdom - Heriot-Watt University

    Heriot-Watt University
    Heriot-Watt University Midlothian, United Kingdom

    Found in: Talent UK C2 - 1 week ago

    Default job background
    Full time
    Description

    Purpose of Role

    As a Research Associate in contact-implicit loco-manipulation, you will play a pivotal role in pioneering the next generation of contact-implicit motion generation approaches for loco-manipulation in legged robots. Your responsibilities will include enhancing loco-manipulation skills in quadruped robots, creating high-quality open-source software, and pushing the boundaries of robotic capabilities.

    Drawing upon your extensive research experience, you will learn and work both closely and independently with your peers and collaborate internationally with researchers from a variety of stakeholder groups. This post is a fixed-term contract associated with a commercial research project.

    Key Duties & Responsibilities

    The post holder is required to;

  • Work closely with the project leaders and team to deliver the project tasks on time.
  • Publish scientific findings at top conferences in robotics and AI.
  • Report verbally and in writing your work progress to project leaders and our industrial partner.
  • Participate in project meetings with our industrial partner.
  • Ensure confidentiality on all matters and information obtained during employment in line with the Data Protection Act
  • Essential & Desirable Criteria

    Applicants must hold a PhD/DPhil in robotics, computer science, machine learning, informatics, AI, or a closely related field, or be close to completion or have an equivalent experience.

    Essential

  • Evidence of research experience, creative and rigorous thinking.
  • Expertise in model predictive control or reinforcement learning.
  • Independent, goal-oriented research and problem-solving skills.
  • Outstanding ability to translate complex ideas into maintainable open software solutions.
  • Effective communication skills.
  • Desirable

  • Expertise in contact physics and numerical optimization.
  • Experience with Boost Python, GPUs, and code generation.
  • Hands-up experience with legged robots.
  • Attention to detail and time management.
  • Ability to work in a team and contribute to its success.
  • PhD degree in Robotics and AI from a prestigious research organization.
  • Experience working with Crocoddyl and Pinocchio.
  • Knowledge, Skills & Experience

  • Ability and willingness to learn new digital skills and capabilities appropriate to your role and how it evolves
  • Understand and adhere to information security practices particularly as it relates to personal or sensitive information
  • Maintain awareness of my own digital wellbeing by being mindful of the length of time spent at a screen and the impact on mental and physical health in using digital technologies.