Research Scientist (Adaptive Robotics and Mechatronics), SIMTech

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking for an Embodied AI Scientist to conduct fundamental and applied research in humanoid robotics, with a particular emphasis on actuator-centric embodied intelligence. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of learning-enabled control and decision-making frameworks that are deeply integrated with the physical dynamics, sensing and actuation of humanoid robotic systems. You are expected to work in a multidisciplinary research group spanning robotics, control, artificial intelligence and mechatronic system

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Conduct research on embodied AI methods for humanoid robots, focusing on joint-level actuation, compliance, force interaction and energy-efficient motion
• Develop learning-based and model-based control strategies that explicitly account for actuator dynamics, nonlinearities and other physical constraints
• Integrate multi-modal sensing which includes closed-loop control of position, force/torque, tactile and visual feedback as well as deployment of learning control architectures such as reinforcement learning
• Adapt Controller tuning transfer challenges through system identification, domain adaptation and adaptive control methods
• Investigate safe and constrained learning approaches for humanoid locomotion and manipulation under uncertainty.
• Integration of the mechanical transmission, actuator and control system into the humanoid robot to demonstrate the embodied intelligence
• Design and conduct experimental studies using humanoid joint modules, actuation testbeds and full-body robotic platforms

JOB REQUIREMENT

• Ph.D. degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Control or Mechatronics Engineering
• 3-5 years of work experience or similar is preferred

We value the following skills and experience:

• Experience with the development and control of humanoid robotics systems
• Knowledge of machine learning applications in motion control, such as reinforcement learning will be a plus
• Good understanding of the various actuation principles and up to date with state-of-the-art actuation technologies
• Experience with the design and integration of BLDC and/or PMSM electric motors in robotics joint module
• Familiarity with numerical simulation software tools e.g. Ansys maxwell, Comsol Multiphysics, JMAG
• Experience with the prototyping and assembly of actuator components e.g. frameless motor assembly
• Good working knowledge of digital control techniques and hardware implementation in embedded controllers
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, Python, or MATLAB.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., CAN, EtherCAT, Modbus).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Good communications skills and the ability to work in a team