Postdoctoral Research Associate in Robotics & AI (1FTE, FTC)

The Royal College of Art is seeking an outstanding Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the RCA Robotics Laboratory in the School of Design. This role is part of the Circular Robot 5.0 project—an ambitious, EPSRC-funded initiative led by Dr. Sina Sareh, Academic Leader in Robotics.

We are looking for a highly skilled researcher with expertise in robotics, AI, software engineering, or computer science, passionate about applying advanced technologies to sustainable manufacturing.

About the Role
You will play a key role in research, development, and integration within the Circular Robot 5.0 consortium. Responsibilities include:

• Developing blockchain-enabled digital passports for industrial robots
• Designing predictive maintenance systems using AI
• Leading system integration and validation with consortium partners

You will collaborate closely with RCA staff, PhD students, and external partners, contributing to cutting-edge, design-led robotics innovation. Outputs are expected to be published in high-impact robotics and design journals/conferences.

Essential Criteria

• PhD (or equivalent experience/Masters with significant research background) in a relevant field
• Extensive programming skills (e.g., C++, Python, MATLAB)
• Strong knowledge of intelligent sensing, system integration, and cloud computing
• Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality research outputs
• Experience with collaborative research, ideally involving HE/industry partners
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
• Willingness to travel and a proactive, flexible mindset

Why RCA?
Join a globally renowned institution that fosters radical, interdisciplinary research. The RCA Robotics Lab offers a unique, design-led environment for transformative research in robotics and AI.

Application Process
To apply, please submit a CV, cover letter, and two recent publications through the RCA recruitment portal. For informal enquiries, please contact the Academic Leader in Robotics, Dr. Sina Sareh, at [[email protected]].

Applications close at 11.59pm on Sunday 8 June 2025

See Information Pack for more details of this exciting new role.

Help us shape the future of intelligent, sustainable automation.

Further details: 

RCA Benefits available here: https://www.rca.ac.uk/more/work-at-the-rca/staff-benefits/

The Royal College of Art (RCA)  aims to foster an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all its staff and students and stakeholders are respected. 

We recognise the broad range of experiences that a diverse staff and student body brings and how this  strengthens our research and enhances our teaching. In order for RCA to remain a world-leading institution we are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles throughout all of our processes, from application through to appointment.

Please tell us if you need any assistance in applying or if you need the information in a different format. In your message to [email protected] include:

• the web address (URL) of the content
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