Research Associate in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

VICTOR Lab at the University of Virginia, directed by Prof. Tomonari Furukawa, is looking for a postdoctoral research associate to work in one (or both) of the following two topics:

1.     Autonomous cooperation of a surface vehicle and an underwater vehicle

2.     Design and development of a humanoid robot with soft robotics 

Together with expertise in the field, strong theoretical knowledge and experimental experience as well as strong publication record, are required.  VICTOR Lab has world-class facilities in a huge (22,000-sqft) space including a wide range of robots and autonomous vehicles and a high-bay indoor flight site.  The recently awarded DURIP grant is further enabling interchangeable real-time autonomous and teleoperation using a CAVE system and HPCs.  10-15 researchers including postdocs, graduate students, undergraduate research students and visiting scholars are working on various sponsored projects associated with robotics.  The postdoctoral research associate will have chances to collaborate with internal and external researchers and supervise students.  Research outcomes will result in publications to support the early career development of the postdoctoral research associate.  Excellent communication skills in both written and spoken English are desired.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: A PhD degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or related field is required by the start date.  A strong background in more than one of the following is required: multi-link system dynamics, humanoid robotics, state/Bayesian estimation, mechatronics, autonomous control.  

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:  Apply online at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and attach a cover letter, the most recent CV with a description of relevant experience, publications, and contact information for three references.  

Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the CV box. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on February 16, 2024, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for an additional one year, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Tomonari Furukawa, Professor, at [email protected]. 
For questions about the application process, please contact Richard Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at [email protected] .

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits .

The University of Virginia, i ncluding the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff.  We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences.  We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.