Academic ConnectResearch Engineer Position in Aerial Robotics at EPFL - Laboratory of Sustainability Robotics (LSR)
Mission:
The Laboratory of Sustainability Robotics (LSR) at EPFL seeks a highly motivated and skilled Research Engineer to manage and maintain their cutting-edge Flight Arena for testing and validating aerial robotics and drone technologies. This facility is central to various research projects, academic coursework, and collaborations, providing a dynamic and multidisciplinary environment. The role will involve overseeing operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and contributing to advancements in drone research and development.
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
- Maintain and manage the lab facilities and associated equipment, including drones, motion capture systems, and safety 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 facility compliance with health and safety standards and regulations.
- Conduct risk assessments for activities within the facility and develop safety procedures.
- Train users on safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
- Coordinate access for visitors, external collaborators, and industry partners.
- Maintain accurate records of facility usage, incidents, and equipment inventory.
- Support funding applications and project proposals related to facility development or drone research.
Profile:
The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and skills:
- Degree (BSc, MSc, or higher) in a relevant discipline such as Robotics, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
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.
Health and Safety Expertise:
- Experience conducting risk assessments and developing health and safety procedures.
- Knowledge of safety standards relevant to drone operations and testing environments.
Soft Skills:
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with a diverse range of stakeholders, including students, researchers, and external partners.
- Problem-solving mindset and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues independently.
Desirable Attributes:
- Previous experience in managing or operating a similar research facility or lab.
- Familiarity with collaborative research environments, especially in academia or industry.
- A passion for innovation in aerial robotics and a proactive approach to exploring emerging technologies.
We Offer:
- A stimulating and international working environment at EPFL, one of Europe's leading scientific institutions.
- Competitive salary and excellent working conditions.
- The opportunity to contribute to state-of-the-art research in the rapidly evolving field of aerial robotics and sustainability.
Information:
- Contract Start Date: As soon as possible.
- Activity Rate: 100% (full-time).
- Contract Type: CDD (fixed-term contract).
- Duration: 1 year (with potential for renewal).
- Reference: 1312
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should apply through the online EPFL platform with the following documents:
- Cover letter (PDF, up to 2 pages).
- CV (with a list of publications).
- Research statement (PDF, up to 3 pages).
- Contact details for 3 referees.
For further information, please contact:
- Mirko Kovac at mirko.kovac@epfl.ch.
This role presents an exciting opportunity to work in a cutting-edge robotics lab, contribute to advancing drone technology, and play a key role in maintaining and evolving a world-class research facility at EPFL.
