Research Associate in Robotics

The University of Manchester - Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Location: Manchester
Salary: £37,694 to £46,049 per annum
Hours: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 11th June 2026
Closes: 24th June 2026
Job Ref: SAE-031468

We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Research Associate in Robotics. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in whole-body modelling and control of mobile manipulators for inspection and maintenance in demanding, cluttered and confined environments. You will work within a dynamic and inclusive research environment as part of the Centre for Robotic Autonomy in Demanding and Long-lasting Environments (CRADLE).

You will be responsible for:

Developing advanced whole-body modelling and control techniques for mobile manipulators
Applying mathematical and control methods to real-world robotic systems operating in challenging environments
Collaborating with academic colleagues, industrial partners and other work packages to integrate research outputs into larger robotic systems
Contributing to field trials, technology transfer activities and industry engagement
Disseminating research through high-quality publications, reports and presentations, and mentoring junior researchers

About You

Essential Criteria:

A PhD in Robotics or a closely related discipline
Strong mathematical background with expertise in whole-body control of mobile manipulators
Proven research experience in advanced control techniques (e.g. constrained or task-space control)
Strong programming skills in C++, Python and MATLAB, with experience using ROS
Excellent communication, organisational and collaborative working skills

Desirable Criteria:

Experience deploying and testing robotic systems in real or representative environments
Experience using Git for version control and documenting software
Experience working with common robotic sensors such as RGB-D cameras, IMUs or LiDAR
Experience collaborating with industry partners or contributing to technology transfer

This role is subject to UK security clearance, and applicants must be eligible to obtain and maintain the appropriate level of clearance.

Our benefits include:

Generous employer pension contribution
29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
Access to world-class robotics facilities and extensive professional development support