Postdoctoral Research Associate in Robotics & ai; fte, FTC

The Royal College of Art (RCA) is seeking a Senior/Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join the RCA Robotics Laboratory within the School of Design, focusing on the Circular Robot 5.0 project – an EPSRC-funded initiative led by Dr. Sina Sareh, Academic Leader in Robotics. The project partners with Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), King’s College London, Loughborough University, UCL, and industrial collaborators including Nvidia, Omron, Amentum, ASTM International and Katlas Technology Ltd.

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

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 and conferences.

• PhD (or equivalent experience/Masters with significant research background) in a relevant field.
• Extensive programming skills (e.g. C++, Python, Robot Operating System).
• Demonstrable skills and relevant subject knowledge in artificial intelligence for robotics, cloud computing, hardware and software integration, testing and validation of results.
• Evidence of producing quality research outputs relevant to the career stage and discipline.
• Ability and willingness to work regularly on campus to support hands‑on research and relevant laboratory activities.
• Awareness of risks in the robotics laboratory environment and relevant Health & Safety issues.
• Willingness to travel to attend conferences and meetings within and outside the UK.
• Experience with collaborative research, ideally involving HE/industry partners.
• Excellent communication, teamwork and problem‑solving skills.