Senior Project Manager for UKRAS STEPS Research Technician Strategic Technical Platform

Are you a passionate and experienced individual with a background in engineering project management? Are you seeking a fresh and exciting opportunity to take on a senior role in a new initiative aimed at transforming the UK ecosystem for research technicians in Robotics and Autonomous Systems?

In this role, you will lead the implementation of all strategic operational aspects of UKRAS STEPS, playing a pivotal role in driving new initiatives and collaborations. With the support of a dedicated project support officer and an experienced leadership team, you will oversee the operations of this £1.9 million programme. UKRAS STEPS is committed to equal opportunities and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds who meet the personal specifications.

The UKRAS Network has successfully brought together academics working in robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) across 37 universities in the UK. UKRAS STEPS aims to replicate this success for all technicians, laboratory, and facility managers working in RAS within the same network.

As part of its mission, UKRAS STEPS will establish a dynamic, community-driven strategic technology platform that empowers individuals to develop their skills while fostering an inclusive community. This initiative aims to enhance the UK environment and support the delivery of world-class RAS research in the country.

Key objectives include:

• Enhancing Individual Technical Knowledge, Skills, and career development of RT in RAS in the UK;
• Transforming the UK environment for RT through networking, shared knowledge, community driven activities, celebrating and publicising success, international collaboration, and national advocacy;
• Delivering a flagship programme, that is professionally managed to be inclusive, ethical, programmatically sustainable, and environmentally conscious.

You will be based at the Real Robotics lab, University of Leeds, which currently receives direct funding exceeding £3 million from research projects with a cumulative value of >£20 million.  Our research portfolio encompasses a range of projects, such as the development of robotic systems for inspecting and repairing urban infrastructure, as well as the manufacturing of robots, including world class robot fabrication facilities. Current major externally funded projects include Pipebots, Trustworthy autonomy node in Verification, and Strength in Places funding which is associated with the Advanced Machinery and Productivity Institute (the AMP Institute).  The real robotics lab consists of 10 full-time academics and technicians, >10 post-doctoral researchers, and >20 PhD students, collectively contributing to the vibrant and dynamic research environment.

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:

Professor Robert Richardson, School of Mechanical Engineering

Tel: +44 (0)113 343 2156 or email: R.C.Richardson@leeds.ac.uk

Location: Leeds - Main Campus

Faculty/Service: Faculty of Engineering & Physical Sciences

School/Institute: School of Mechanical Engineering

Category: Professional & Managerial

Contract Type: 

Fixed Term (Until 31 December 2026 - to complete specific time limited work.)

Interview Date: To be confirmed

Downloads: Candidate Brief  

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