Professor of Automation, Robotics and Intelligent Construction Systems

About the role:

We are delighted to be recruiting a new colleague at Professor level in Automation, Robotics and Intelligent Construction Systems in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering. 

This is a rare and strategically significant appointment intended as a founding role to shape and lead the Department’s new Imperial Centre for Construction Innovation (ICCI). The Centre will provide a focal point for teaching, research, enterprise, and outreach, bringing together cutting-edge robotics and AI with the real-world challenges of construction and infrastructure delivery.

With a vision to become the go-to international centre for excellence in intelligent construction systems, ICCI will influence research, policy and practice, set the agenda for the sector’s future development, and raise the quality, sustainability and effectiveness of Civil and Environmental Engineering construction worldwide.

What you would be doing:

You will conceive, resource and lead an original, internationally visible research programme that combines advanced robotics, automation and artificial intelligence with the practical realities of the construction industry and the wider civil engineering profession.

You will play a leading role in shaping the mission, strategy and growth of ICCI, helping to define its research directions, partnerships and external profile, and positioning Imperial at the forefront of innovation in intelligent construction.

You will provide intellectual and strategic leadership for the Centre, including responsibility for financial, staff and research resources, and for building, mentoring and developing a high‑performing interdisciplinary team.

You will contribute to undergraduate and taught postgraduate teaching and to the supervision of higher research degrees, playing an active role in shaping curricula and doctoral training in automation, robotics and intelligent construction at Imperial.

What we are looking for:

You will hold a PhD (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Robotics, Automation, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Intelligent Construction Systems or a related field.

An international reputation and expertise in your field research

You will also have an excellent record of research or development, evidenced by a strong portfolio of research publications and/or projects confirming international standing and impact.

You will bring proven leadership experience, with the ability to inspire, motivate and develop colleagues, and to provide strategic direction within a complex, research‑intensive environment.

Experience of training undergraduate and postgraduate students, and supervising higher degrees (PhD).

What we can offer you:

We are proud to support our staff with:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity
• The opportunity to grow in your career with tailored training programmes for academic staff including mentoring and dedicated support with navigating your career and managing research as well as a transparent promotion process.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes)

Further Information

Further information can be found in the job description.

Salary: Internationally Competitive

If you require any further details on the role please contact, the Head of the Department of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Professor Washington Yotto Ochieng, Email: w.ochieng@imperial.ac.uk

Any queries regarding the application process should be directed to Lucy Chivers at l.chivers@imperial.ac.uk

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