At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and optimise artificial touch sensors for detecting defects in composite materials.
- Company: Join the University of Bristol's cutting-edge robotics research team.
- Benefits: Gain access to state-of-the-art facilities and work on innovative projects.
- Other info: Flexible part-time role with excellent support for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in robotics and AI with hands-on experience.
- Qualifications: PhD or working towards one in Engineering/Robotics, with robotics and AI experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
This role will be based at the University of Bristol’s School of Engineering Mathematics and Technology, as part of a joint project with the National Composites Centre (NCC). The project will investigate “Autonomous Real-Time Composite Quality Assurance via Neuromorphic Tactile Sensing”. We are looking for a skilled and motivated individual with experience in robotics and AI, ideally with knowledge of artificial sensors and neural networks.
You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities at Bristol Robotics Laboratory, the largest centre for multidisciplinary robotics research in the UK. The role would involve optimizing an artificial touch sensor for use in detecting defects during composite layup, as well as developing algorithms and visualization tools to demonstrate its performance in an industrial setting.
You will be part of a team comprising Dr. Benjamin Ward-Cherrier and PhD student Ao Li at the University of Bristol, as well as a research engineer and project manager at the NCC.
What will you be doing?
As part of this role, you will be expected to create a demonstration of automated composite layup defect detection with an artificial tactile sensor. The role will involve optimizing the design of an existing artificial tactile sensor for the specific task of composite layup defect detection. You will develop algorithms for the identification and description of defects based on artificial neural networks. Finally, you will also develop any code needed to run the demonstration and visualise results in real-time on a robotic arm platform, working with the team to ensure the final demonstration is a success.
You should apply if you are:
- A self-motivated individual with experience in Robotics and AI
- Interested in industrial applications for robotics
- A PhD holder (or working towards one) in an Engineering/Robotics related discipline
- Able to work independently and under pressure
- A good team player
- A strong communicator, both in oral and written form
Additional information
For informal queries please contact: Dr Benjamin Ward-Cherrier, Senior Lecturer, via email: b.ward-cherrier@bristol.ac.uk
Contract type: Open-ended (fixed funding for 1 year)
Work pattern: Part-time/15 hours per week
Grade: I/Pathway 2
This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 05/07/2026. The interviews are anticipated to take place week commencing 13th July 2026.
Research Associate in Tactile Robotics in Bristol employer: City of Bristol College
The University of Bristol offers an exceptional work environment for the Research Associate in Tactile Robotics, providing access to cutting-edge facilities at the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, the largest centre for multidisciplinary robotics research in the UK. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation, employees benefit from a supportive culture that fosters professional growth and development, alongside opportunities to engage in impactful research projects that contribute to advancements in robotics and AI.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Tactile Robotics in Bristol
✨Get Hands-On at Local Robotics Events
Robotics is all about practical experience, so dive into local meetups or hackathons in the robotics and automation world. Not only can you showcase your skills, but you might also bump into potential employers like City of Bristol College who value that kind of proactive learning.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Skills
Create a portfolio that highlights your robotics projects, whether they're personal or academic. If you've built any cool automation systems, record a short video demonstration or write a blog post about them. This will give you a leg up when you're applying for that part-time role—employers love to see real-world applications of your skills!
✨Tap into University Networks
If you're currently studying, make full use of your university's career services. They often have links to part-time opportunities in tech, including robotics. Plus, reaching out to professors can open doors—many are connected to the industry and can recommend you for part-time roles like the one at City of Bristol College.
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
When you spot a part-time role at City of Bristol College, don’t just scroll past! Take that extra step and apply through our website. This not only shows your genuine interest but can also give you a better chance at getting noticed by the hiring team. Let’s get your foot in the door together!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Tactile Robotics in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Robotics Projects:When it comes to applying for a part-time role in robotics and automation at City of Bristol College, we want to see what you've actually built! Include any projects you've worked on in your CV or as part of a portfolio. Highlight specific technologies and methodologies you’ve used – don’t forget to mention the outcomes.
Be Specific About Your Skills:Robotics is all about precision, so make sure your CV reflects this by clearly outlining your technical skills. Whether it's programming languages, specific software like ROS, or hands-on experience with sensors and actuators, we need to see the nitty-gritty that shows you can get the job done.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:In a part-time role, collaboration is key. Use your cover letter to tell us about your experiences working on team projects or competitive robotics. We love to see how you can contribute to a team dynamic, so share any instances where you’ve taken the lead or played a vital role.
Highlight Availability and Flexibility:Since this is a part-time gig, make sure to mention your availability clearly in your application. Are you free during weekends? Evenings? Letting us know when you can work will help us see how you fit into our schedule at City of Bristol College.
How to prepare for a job interview at City of Bristol College
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Make sure you highlight your experience with robotics and automation tools, like ROS or Arduino, as these are crucial for roles in this field. Bring along any relevant projects or a portfolio that demonstrates your hands-on experience; it’ll give us concrete examples to discuss.
✨Prepare for Technical Challenges
Part-time roles in robotics often involve technical questions and problem-solving scenarios. Be prepared to tackle some practical problems or case studies during the interview — they might ask you to design a simple robotic system or troubleshoot a common issue. Brush up on your coding as well; knowing C++ or Python can be a real advantage.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since you're applying for a part-time position, it’s important to express your availability and willingness to adapt. Let City of Bristol College know how your schedule fits with their needs, as they might have specific project timings or requirements. This can make or break your chances!
✨Show Off Your Passion
In robotics, enthusiasm often counts just as much as experience. Discuss what excites you about automation — whether it's the latest tech innovations or a personal project you’re working on. This can really help us see how you’d fit into the City of Bristol College culture.
