Research Engineer in Robotics to support the implementation of novel multi-modal and meta-morphic robotics systems
Empa, Materials Science and Technology
Publication date:
17 January 2025Workload:
100%Contract type:
Permanent position- Place of work:Dübendorf
Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.
Research Engineer in Robotics to support the implementation of novel multi-modal and meta-morphic robotics systems
The Laboratory of Sustainability Robotics (LSR) is a world-leading group with research focus on the development of novel, biologically inspired flying robots for distributed sensing in air and water and autonomous robotic construction for digital infrastructure systems. The lab is based on a jointly funded Professorship by Empa and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) and is specialised in robot design, hardware development and multi-modal robot mobility.
Your tasks
- Develop novel robotics and AI systems with characterisation in the testing labs and in the field.
- Maintain and manage the lab facilities and associated equipment, including drones, motion capture systems and security infrastructure.
- Perform regular inspections, troubleshooting and maintenance of hardware and software used in the arena.
- Assist academic staff, researchers and students in setting up experiments and tests within the lab.
- Ensure that the facility complies with all health and safety standards and regulations.
- Carry out risk assessments for activities within the facility and develop safety procedures.
- Train users in safety protocols and emergency procedures.
- Coordinate access for visitors, external collaborators and industry partners.
- Maintain accurate records of facility usage, incidents and equipment inventory.
- Support funding applications, publications, outreach and project proposals related to facility development or drone research.
Your profile
Candidates should hold a degree (BSc, MSc or higher) in a relevant discipline such as robotics, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, computer science or a related field.
Soft skills:
Desirable attributes:
Technical skills:
- Experience with aerial robotics systems, including drone operation, design or programming.
- Knowledge of motion capture systems, flight controllers and simulation software (e.g. ROS, Gazebo, PX4 or ArduPilot).
- Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, C++ or MATLAB.
- Basic understanding of electronics and mechatronics for drone maintenance and repair.
- Experience in conducting risk assessments and developing health and safety procedures.
- Knowledge of safety standards relevant to drone operations and testing environments.
Soft skills:
- Strong organisational and multi-tasking skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with a range of stakeholders including students, researchers and external partners.
- Fluency in English.
- Problem solving mindset and ability to independently troubleshoot technical issues.
Desirable attributes:
- Previous experience of managing or operating a similar research facility or laboratory.
- Familiarity with collaborative research environments, particularly in academia or industry.
- A passion for innovation in aerial robotics and a proactive approach to exploring new technologies.
- Fluency in German and/or French.
Our offer
We offer a 1 year position with the possibility of extension at Empa to conduct state-of-the-art research in one of the most dynamic scientific institutions in Europe, including access to the DroneHub. The position will be based at the Empa campus in Dübendorf, near Zurich, Switzerland. The candidate will also have close collaboration and exchange with the EPFL, Lausanne. Applications are open immediately, the expected starting date as soon as possible by mutual agreement.
We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.
We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.
