Research Fellow (Mechanical Engineering / Robotics / Control Engineering)

About this role

Schaeffler Hub for Advanced Research at NTU is a collaborative research center between Nanyang Technological University and Schaeffler Group. The Schaeffler SHARE program comprises a global research network with leading universities globally. The on-campus concept provides a structured approach focused on applied research in strategically important topics aligned with Schaeffler’s strategic roadmap for a fast and thorough transfer of research output into the industry.

SHARE at NTU aims to expand the current state of technology and build on Robotics & Industry 4.0 as aligned with Schaeffler’s strategic roadmap.SHARE at NTU also serves as a platform in identifying and developing new talents via various collaboration initiatives with the University. For more details, please view Open www.schaeffler.sg/en/company/share-at-ntu/.

Key Job Purpose

We are looking for a Research Fellow to carry out applied research with transferable outcomes in haptic dual arm manipulation research as per SHARE at NTU project deliverables. The role will focus on Haptic SLAM for dual arm manipulation and planning contact rich manipulation tasks with dual arm robots.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop haptic SLAM algorithms and manipulation potential models using Riemannian-geometric methods and adaptive ODE-based equilibrium computation.
• Develop DMP-based motion-planning methods and impedance-control strategies, and evaluate them in Drake or equivalent robotics simulation software.
• Implement and validate algorithms on Kinova dual-arm robotic systems through manipulation experiments, including book insertion.
• Use Haption haptic devices for data acquisition and teleoperation.
• Analyse results, document research methods and experimental procedures, and prepare technical reports and publications.
• Job

Requirements

• PhD qualification degree in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Control Engineering, or a related field
• At least 4 years of relevant research experience, with a track record of peer-reviewed publications in top IEEE robotics journals and conferences, such as IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters (RA-L) and IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS), demonstrating research experience in haptics, haptic SLAM, Riemannian geometry for robotic manipulation, manipulation potential modelling, adaptive ODE-based equilibrium computation, motion planning, and impedance control of robot arms.

- Good written and oral communication skills

• Proficiency in robot programming, numerical computation, and robotics simulation, including the use of Drake or similar robotics software; hands-on experience with Kinova robotic arms, Haption haptic devices, DMP-based motion planning, impedance control, data acquisition, teleoperation, and dual-arm robotic experiments such as book insertion
• Competent in analytical thinking, research problem-solving, experimental design, technical documentation, and multidisciplinary teamwork
• Interpersonal skill (e.g. Ability to work independently, develop technical solutions under project timelines, conduct and troubleshoot robotic experiments, and collaborate effectively with researchers and project partners; meticulous with good organizational and time-management skills)
• We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
• Hiring Institution: NTU