Research Associate

JOB TITLE

Research Associate

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Robotics Engineering - NFR JM

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead the design, prototyping, and control of a bio-inspired robotic gate system. This system will mimic biological mechanisms to enable adaptive, efficient, and robust control for regulating passage in dynamic environments. The role involves mechanical design, actuation strategies, and intelligent control for real-world deployment.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Key Responsibilities:

• Design & Analysis:
  • Develop innovative bio-inspired concepts for a robotic gate mechanism that can block or allow traffic dynamically.
  • Perform structural and dynamic analysis to ensure reliability and safety.

• Prototyping & Integration:
  • Fabricate and assemble robotic gate prototypes using advanced manufacturing techniques.
  • Integrate sensors, actuators, and control hardware for autonomous operation.

• Control & Automation:
  • Implement control algorithms for adaptive opening/closing based on environmental and user inputs.
  • Test and validate system performance under various conditions.

• Research & Dissemination:
  • Publish research findings in top-tier journals and present at conferences.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and mentor graduate students.

• Leadership & Teamwork:
  • Lead a group of students performing sub-tasks
  • Develop strong communication and collaboration among group members
  • Expand research to novel directions and assist in grant applications

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Robotics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in linkage mechanisms, robotic design, actuation, and control systems.
• Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, ROS) and hardware integration.
• Hands-on experience with prototyping and deploying embedded robotic systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of bio-inspired mechanisms and adaptive systems.
• Experience with soft robotics or compliant structures.
• Familiarity with safety standards for automated systems.

Compensation:

$60,000 - This is an on-site position beginning January 2026 to August 15, 2026 with the possibility of extension.

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.