Senior Research Fellow in Field Robotics-(University of Sydney)

Job Overview

Senior Research Fellow in Field Robotics

• Opportunity to lead world class field robotics research in deep learning and automation for large-scale mining equipment within the Australian Centre for Field Robotics

• Join one of the largest robotics research groups in the world with over 120 researchers and engineers, and 1500m2 of laboratory space

• Full time, fixed term until October 2022 with possible extension. Offering a base Salary $135,793 – $156,579 + 17% superannuation and relocation allowance as appropriate

About the opportunity

We are currently seeking an experienced, self-motivated and well-qualified Senior Research Fellow to lead an ambitious ‘Perception Technologies’ research program within the Rio Tinto Centre for Mine Automation. This project aims to set the direction for the next 10 years of funding for our Centre, as we investigate new ways to transform mining operations through improved perception, deep learning and automation.

The work will involve collaborating with industry and leading a research team to pioneer new capabilities and deploy on real-world systems for collecting observations on the mine site, interpreting these observations, and automation of mobile equipment. Applications include using deep learning on mobile sensing data to improve safety and performance of heavy equipment, automating robots to collect novel data sources from the mine site, and interpretation of geology and physical structures from these sensors. Sensing modalities include RGB and hyperspectral imaging, LIDAR, RADAR, GNSS/INS and more specialised modalities for material sampling.

In addition to technical expertise, the role will require leadership skills to direct the research team and develop this project into a long-term research program with real-world outcomes. This role will provide an exceptional opportunity to work closely with academia and Rio Tinto at the intersection of fundamental research into field-robotics and mine operations. You will work with the Centre’s team of software engineers to facilitate the real-world validation and operational deployment of your academic research. You will be expected to build research areas, engage in academic publication of research, supervise postdoc researchers and PhD students, and engage directly with the industry partner. This research-focused role does not require a teaching load, but opportunities may be available if desired.

About you

We are looking for a candidate who has:

• a PhD in engineering, computer science, applied mathematics or a related discipline

• expert knowledge in robotics, automation and deep learning

• leadership experience in research projects

• excellent communications skills, and a willingness to travel interstate to work with our industry partner (subject to university and/or government restrictions around COVID-19)

• a passion for robotics and automation, and is interested in leading a long-term research program

• experience working with industry partners

• demonstrated success working closely with a hardware/software/research team to transform concepts into real-world deployable products/systems

• proficiency with Python or similar languages and experience with ROS would be advantageous

Flexible work arrangements including options for remote working to accommodate to COVID-19 related restrictions will be considered and offered to the right candidate.

To apply for this position, please address the below criteria and provide a link to your scholarly profile along with a cover letter and CV:

• demonstrated expert knowledge in robotics and automation, ideally in areas such as sensing and perception, deep learning, signal processing, data fusion, task-planning, motion-planning, human machine interaction, control theory and hierarchical or context-aware control systems.

• experience leading or working in a team-based research project, including supervision of students or academics at a postgraduate level

• experience working with industry partners (especially mining, construction or similar)

• demonstrated success working closely with a hardware/software/research team to transform concepts into real-world deployable products/systems

Closing date for applications; 11.59pm, 26 September 2021

Sponsorship / work rights for Australia

Visa sponsorship is only available for this position for candidates who are currently located within Australia

Pre-employment checks

Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

EEO statement

The University of Sydney is committed to diversity and social inclusion. Applications from people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; equity target groups including women, people with disabilities, people who identify as LGBTIQ; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged.

How to apply

Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.

University of Sydney Career Site – Workday (myworkdayjobs.com)

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or support filling out this application, please contact Linden Joseph or Rebecca Astar, Recruitment Operations, Human Resources on recruitment.sea@sydney.edu.au