Job Description

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Job Title: Research Fellow (Robotics/Mechatronics)
Posting Start Date: 04/12/2025
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Overall Role
Lead the end-to-end research and development of next-generation pipeline inspection and repair robotic systems, covering mechanical design innovation, perception and navigation capabilities, and AI-driven defect detection. The Postdoc will act as the technical lead, coordinating with RAs, industry partners, and PI to deliver integrated R&D outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
A.Novel Mechanical Design & System Embodiment

• Lead the conceptualisation, modelling, and prototyping of flexible joint mechanisms, wheel assemblies, and repair/re-lining modules.
• Conduct structural, dynamic, and kinematic analyses to optimise robustness, manufacturability, and operational performance in pipeline environments.

B. Defect Detection & Multimodal ML

• Oversee the development of vision-/LiDAR-based defect detection algorithms for cracks, chokage, deformation, corrosion, etc.
• Establish datasets, annotation standards, training pipelines, and benchmarking protocols for ML models.
• Integrate uncertainty estimation and real-time inference strategies for deployment on embedded platforms.

C. Navigation, Mapping & Perception

• Lead R&D in 3D mapping, localization, sensor fusion, and risk-aware perception for complex pipes and confined spaces.
• Supervise implementation of SLAM, multi-sensor calibration, real-time onboard mapping, and traversability analysis.

D. Module Functions & Repair Technologies

• Provide technical leadership in mechanism design for repair, re-lining, or chokage removal modules.
• Work with industrial partners to validate and iterate designs through lab and field trials.

E. Project Integration & Mentorship

• Integrate mechanical, perception, and ML components into a unified robotic platform.
• Supervise and technically mentor Research Assistants, Master and Undergraduate project students.
• Prepare publications, patents, reports, and present outcomes to funding agencies.

Qualifications

• PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Vision, or a closely related field.

• Strong expertise in robot design and at least one of: SLAM, multimodal perception, ML for defect detection.

• Demonstrated ability to lead complex R&D projects with prototypes and experiments.

Skills Required