Research Associate in Soft Robotics and Machine Learning

About the role

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to take a key role in the development of a new analytical framework for developing dexterous soft robotic manipulators. The role is funded by ARIA (Advanced Research and Invention Agency). The successful applicant will be based at the University of Bath.

The emerging technology of soft robotics exploits flexible and compliant materials for their design. They are able to translate fundamental biological principles into new engineering design rules or combine life-like components into a synthetic structure to create robotic systems that perform very much like a natural system. Soft robotic systems provide a route to increase body flexibility, improve dexterous handling in unstructured environments, enable adaptability of wearable and medical devices, and safer human-machine interaction. Machine Learning (ML) is an emerging technology with significant potential in integrating and embodying soft robotics technologies, but it is in its infancy in this area. This high-risk, high-gain project will provide a step-change and lead to advances at the frontiers of knowledge in soft robotics by creating a new analytical modelling framework which involves new model- and learning-based approaches and their integration to allow modelling, prediction, control and understanding of soft robotic manipulators. The new framework will address and overcome “frustrating unpredictability”, “surprising results”, “ineffectiveness and inaccuracy”, and “unreliability” of the soft manipulators during motion, as well as “a lack of understanding and tools” challenge during research on soft robotics.

The PDRA will be responsible for delivering high-quality research on the topic, including:

• Design and development of soft manipulators.
• Development of a multimodal sensing system and the learning-based models of soft manipulators.
• Model assessment and evaluation.
• Creation of an analytical modelling framework to enable an understanding and the development of dexterous soft robotic manipulators 

This role will suit you if you:

• Hold a PhD degree in a subject area of direct relevance for the project.
• Have previous experience in one or more of the following: modelling, design, control or prototyping of soft robots and systems.
• Have excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Are self-motivated and have excellent communication skills.

You will be responsible for planning and performing your own research activities. You will be expected to take an active role in supporting PhD and undergraduate research students within the laboratory. You should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills to work as part of a team and discuss your work with a range of audiences.

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term role for a period of 24 months.

For an informal discussion about this role please contact:

Professor Min Pan (mp351@bath.ac.uk)

Please ensure you submit your application via our website. Please note that during initial shortlisting, the panel can only see your application form and your answers to the shortlisting questions; they cannot see your attachments (e.g. your CV).

A lower grade offer may be made (Grade 6) with comparable reduction in responsibilities and amendment in job title to Research Assistant, if a suitable applicant cannot be found to fill the Grade 7 position. Applicants will need to be within six months of their course completion date and will be promoted to Research Associate once their PhD has been awarded.

What we can offer you

We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. 

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