Research Associate in Mobile Robotics: Loughborough University is seeking a passionate and highly qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in Mobile Robotics to join the Centre for Autonomous Systems (LUCAS). This role focuses on the development and deployment of a reliable multi-session simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM) solution tailored for agricultural environments.
Designation
Research Associate in Mobile Robotics
Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Loughborough University, Loughborough |
| Salary | From £35,116 (subject to annual pay award) |
| Contract Type | Fixed-Term/Contract |
| Hours | Full Time |
| Job Reference | REQ250513 |
| Placed On | 23rd June 2025 |
| Closes | 15th July 2025 |
Research Area
The project is part of a UKRI funded initiative on Precision Orchard Management for Environment (POME), which aims to enhance the integration of robotics and autonomous systems in horticulture through advanced navigation systems.
Location
Loughborough University, Loughborough, Hybrid Working Environment
Eligibility/Qualification
- Must hold or be close to completing a Doctorate degree in Control Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Autonomous Systems, or a related technical field.
- Alternatively, an MSc/MRes degree with substantial working experience in relevant fields will be considered.
- Demonstrated ability to program in C/C++, Python, and/or MATLAB to a high standard.
- Experience with state estimation and factor-graph algorithms.
- Proven experience in the Robotic Operating System (ROS).
- A track record of publications in robotics or control engineering themed journals is essential.
- Desirable experience includes the use of inertial measurement units, SLAM, Visual Inertial Odometry (VIO), and conducting field trials of mobile robotic systems.
Job Description
The selected candidate will:
- Manage academic research and administrative activities.
- Adapt existing methodologies and develop new ones in robotics.
- Design algorithms based on theoretical frameworks.
- Deploy and test these algorithms on hardware as needed.
- Analyze data from various sources and field trials.
Specific duties include expanding existing graph-based SLAM methods for multi-session SLAM in complex, feature-sparse agricultural environments. This will facilitate consistent robotic operations and mapping throughout the year in dynamic environments, utilizing IMUs, visual data, or LiDAR sensors.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application, including a CV and cover letter detailing how they meet the eligibility criteria, through the Loughborough University careers website.
Last Date for Application
15th July 2025
This post provides a comprehensive overview of the Research Associate position at Loughborough University in the field of mobile robotics. For further details, please refer to the job description and person specification on their official website.
