Post Doctoral Research Associate in Agri-Robotic Systems

The University of Lincoln is seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) in Agricultural Robotic Systems, covering Robotics and Autonomous Systems and Human-Robot Interaction. This post sits within the Lincoln Institute for Agri-food Technology (LIAT), an interdisciplinary research centre in the university's College of Science, and the post is linked with the Lincoln Centre for Autonomous Systems (L-CAS). It is expected that you will have a strong academic background in any of the following areas: robotics, autonomous systems, multi-robot systems, human-robot interaction and/or in-field robotics. Experience with physical robot systems is required. Experience with in-field systems (i.e. outside controlled lab environments) and/or human-robot interaction is desirable.

You should hold a PhD or be near to completion and must be able to demonstrate an excellent track record in Robotics. You are expected to have strong mathematical and programming skills (e.g. Python, C++), knowledge of computer vision, data mining and/or robotics tools (e.g. ROS/ROS2, OpenCV, scikit-learn, tensorflow, pytorch) and be able to work on group software projects using modern tools and environments (e.g. github, docker, Ubuntu). Specific interest in sustainable agri-food production is desirable, but experience in this domain is not required.

In this post you will design, conduct and manage original research in agricultural robotic systems, working directly with industry collaborators. Evidence of authorship of research outputs of international standing is essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, including excellent written and spoken communication skills. The position offers the opportunity to engage in collaboration within an ambitious team, to work with state-of-the-art equipment, and to benefit from excellent support to produce and disseminate original research contributions.

The post is funded with support from an Innovate UK grant that focuses on establishing test procedures for regulating agricultural robotics activities within commercial grower settings. Some aspects of the role will be technical (development and testing of robotic processes) and some will be more related to social science (practical implementation of test processes within real-world settings).

If you would like further information or an informal discussion about this exciting opportunity, please contact Professor Elizabeth Sklar at esklar@lincoln.ac.uk.

You can find out more about working at Lincoln, and everything that we have to offer, at: https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/jobopportunities/

We strive for a diverse workforce with the very best employees and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. The University encourages applications from underrepresented groups inclusive of Black, Asian and other minoritised/marginalised ethnic groups, all gender identities and expressions from the LGBTQIA+ community, candidates with a disability, and those that practise different faiths and beliefs, to enhance our One Community where we strive to be kind, patient, and supportive of each other.

Please note: If you think you may require a visa to work in the UK, please refer to UK Visas and Immigration or UK Visas – Information for Prospective Staff before embarking upon an application, to ensure that you understand the requirements for sponsorship. You may be eligible to work in the UK via other alternative visa routes such as the Global Talent Visa or by having Settlement / ILR; please refer to the UK Visas pages above for further details.

Closing Date: Monday 31 March 2025
Interview Date: Wednesday 16 April 2025

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