Research Associate – Robotic Systems Engineer (2 posts available)

The ALACANDRA project aims to advance the location accuracy of radioactivity that is possible via collimated transform methods for robotic applications in nuclear decommissioning.  It is a collaboration between Lancaster University and the University of Manchester.  This appointment is part of a significant investment made by EPSRC and the successful applicant will be based at Manchester. This specific research position will focus on the development of a robotic platform that will collect radiation measurements from within the environment in which it is deployed. Subsequent analysis of these measurements will enable any radiation sources, that are present, to be located.

Based in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Manchester, you will develop and conduct research into ground-based Robotic Systems suitable for monitoring and surveying nuclear facilities and will develop digital-twins of radiation environments that can be used to support simulation studies.

Qualifications and experience:

• You must hold a PhD degree or equivalent in the field of mechatronic engineering, Robotic Systems or a related discipline and have experience in the design and testing of robotic devices.
• You must have practical experience of developing Robotic Systems and system integration (mechanical, electrical and software integration).
• You must have experience in using ROS, CAD and 3D printing.
• You must have excellent interpersonal skills, work effectively in a team and have experience of preparing and delivering presentations, reports and journal papers to the highest levels of quality.

This post is offered is a fixed-term appointment. The contract will end on 31 August 2025. 

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status.  All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.

Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name:  Dr Andrew West

Email: andrew.west@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria