Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Robotics Perception

Please note, this post is fixed term for 12 months, and full time at 1.0 FTE.
Closing Date: Monday 08 April 2024
Interview Date: Wednesday 17 April 2024

We are seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Associate with a research profile in Robotic Perception to join the Lincoln Centre for Autonomous Systems (L-CAS) at the University of Lincoln.

The University of Lincoln’s robotics team is working alongside European academic institutions, such as the University of Bonn, TU Delft, and ETH Zurich, to design new robotic mapping standards in outdoor scenarios. The post will be involved in developing a new collaborative semantic-based mapping solution for autonomous robots in the fields. This new framework aims to improve overall robotic performance and to provide farmers with a 360-degree perspective on their orchards. The principle will be demonstrated by developing robotic systems for vineyards and apple orchard monitoring.

For that purpose, we are looking to recruit a Post-Doctoral Research Associate with interest and experience in at least one of the following research areas: robotic perception (preferably with a focus on instance level segmentation); vision-based navigation for mobile and/or aerial vehicle; and/or simultaneous localization and mapping.

You should also have, or be close to completing, a PhD in computer science or robotics, with a track-record of research publications in relevant journals and/or conferences. Excellent mathematical and coding skills (C++/Python) are essential, as is experience in programming robots and sensor integration using middleware such as ROS or ROS2.

This opportunity allows you to engage in international collaboration, work with state-of-the-art robotic hardware and software, and benefit from excellent research support. You will have access to state-of-the-art research farms equipped with industrial standard production facilities and agricultural robots with advanced sensors and tools.

You will be expected to conduct original research as well as contribute to the wider activities of the Agri-robotics team. 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. Opportunities to mentor and co-supervise PhD students working in the project team may also be available.

Informal enquiries about the posts can be made to Dr Riccardo Polvara, Senior Lecturer in Robotics and Autonomous Systems, at rpolvara@lincoln.ac.uk.

The University of Lincoln is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, as reflected in our mission to be open to people, places, methods and ideas. We are committed to advancing gender equality in STEM, and female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Further details:

• Job Description and Person Specification

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.

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