POSITION SUMMARY:

We are seeking an experienced researcher to assist in the development of a self-assembling conveyor system. The postdoctoral researcher will work alongside Dr. Petras Swissler to develop, analyze, build, and validate meter-scale robot hardware. The robot will be deployed in pilot studies near the end of the second year.

PREREQUISITE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Doctoral degree in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
• At the university’s discretion, the education and experience prerequisites may be exempted where the candidate can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the university, an equivalent combination of education and experience specifically preparing the candidate for success in the position.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Excellent communication skills with academic and industry partners.
• Experience sourcing components with suppliers.
• Experience integrating hardware, software, and electronics.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills with experience managing undergraduate and graduate students.

• Lead the design and construction of a robotic system, including delegating tasks to graduate and undergraduate students, as well as to independent contractors hired to provide engineering support.
• Identify and coordinate with vendors and suppliers to procure parts and equipment necessary to realize the robot.
• Perform validation and testing of the robot.
• Collaborate with other team members across three universities, including collaborators working on algorithms, mechatronics, user interface, and pilot studies.
• Participate in weekly project meetings.
• Author publications and grant proposals pertinent to research performed.