"Smart Manufacturing Technology - Bioinspired Robotics Research Fellow (Hybrid)"

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

The College of Innovation and Technology is looking for a Postdoctoral Fellow for a full year (12 months). The position is focused on interdisciplinary research in mechanical engineering, robotics, manufacturing, and intelligent systems, with a strong emphasis on soft robotics, bioinspired design, fabrication of artificial muscles, and advanced mechatronic systems. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Yara Almubarak on cutting-edge projects involving the application of conceptualization, design, modeling, fabrication, and experimental validation of novel robotic and mechanical systems, including soft actuators, hybrid robotic mechanisms, sensing-enabled structures, and human-centric robotic technologies.

The candidate will have an opportunity to work with outstanding collaborators at all three University of Michigan campuses.

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible appointment for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability.

This position reports to Dr. Yara Almubarak.

• Work under Assistant Professor on externally funded research projects in bioinspired robotics, smart materials, and mechanical system design
• Publish peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers
• Build collaborations with industry, national labs, and funding agencies

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, or a closely related engineering discipline from an accredited institution.
• Demonstrated expertise in mechanical system design, robotics, and advanced mechatronic systems, including both theoretical modeling and experimental validation.
• Proven research experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Soft robotics and bioinspired systems
  • Artificial muscles and smart actuators (e.g., TCPs, SMAs)
  • Advanced smart materials and structures for robotic applications
  • Human-centric and sensing-enabled mechanical systems
• Strong background in computational modeling and analysis, including finite element analysis (FEA), multiphysics simulations, and data-driven system evaluation.
• Hands-on experience with prototyping, fabrication, and experimental testing, including advanced additive manufacturing and laboratory instrumentation.
• Strong publication record in relevant research areas.