Research Project Administrator

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

In this role, you will provide essential administrative and coordination support for the UK RAS STEPS project, a major initiative funded to develop skills, training, and education pathways for Research Technical Professionals working in robotics and autonomous systems across the UK. Working closely with the Programme Manager and academic leads, you will ensure smooth delivery of project activities, effective collaboration between partners, and timely reporting to funders. 

The UKRAS Network has successfully brought together academics working in robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) across 60+ 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 has established 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. You will be a critical link between the community and the Programme Leads.

Key objectives include:

• Enhancing Individual Technical Knowledge, Skills, and career development of RTPs in RAS in the UK;
• Transform the UK environment for RTPs through networking, shared knowledge, community driven activities, celebrating and publicising success, international collaboration, and national advocacy;
• Deliver 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.

This role will be based on the University campus, with scope for it to be undertaken in a hybrid manner. We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements. 

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

Email: R.C.Richardson@leeds.ac.uk  

Please note that due to Home Office visa requirements, this role is not suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants. Information on other visa options is available via the Government’s Work in the UK page.

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