At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on safety for autonomous robotic systems and AI.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham's School of Computer Science, a leader in innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for publication, and collaboration with top researchers across Europe.
- Other info: Dynamic, inclusive environment with excellent career growth and support for PhD supervision.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in robotics and AI safety while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and strong background in formal verification or robotics.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to October 2028
Closing date: 28th June 2026
Background
The position is part of a European Innovation Council Pathfinder project, which investigates safe, intelligent, and autonomous robotic systems. The successful candidate will join the research group of Sadegh Soudjani at the University of Birmingham and contribute to the development of mathematically rigorous safety and verification techniques for autonomous multi-robot systems. The project focuses on the development of safe-by-design methods by combining formal verification, control theory, logical reasoning, and AI-enabled decision-making.
Research topics include:
- Safety verification using barrier certificates
- Compositional verification using assume-guarantee contracts
- Temporal logic specification and verification
- Safe autonomy for multi-agent robotic systems
- Computational techniques for trustworthy AI-enabled cyber-physical systems
The Research Fellow will collaborate with an interdisciplinary consortium involving robotics, AI, and control researchers across Europe. The role offers opportunities to publish in leading venues, contribute to open-source software, support supervision of PhD students, and participate in the development of future research proposals.
Role Summary
The post-holder will conduct research on formal verification, safe control, and logical reasoning techniques for autonomous robotic systems. The role will involve development of novel mathematical and computational methods for safety assurance of AI-enabled cyber-physical systems, including multi-robot systems operating in dynamic environments.
Main Duties
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Analyse and interpret data
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc.
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Undertake management/administration arising from research
- Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
- Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
- Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
- Promote equality and value diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture
Person Specification
- First degree in area of specialism and normally, a higher degree relevant to research areas indicated below or equivalent qualifications/experience – Control Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Strong background in at least one of the following: formal verification, control theory, robotics, cyber-physical systems, temporal logic, hybrid systems, safe autonomy, optimisation-based control, or AI safety.
- Strong publication record relative to career stage.
- Experience with mathematical modelling and computational tool development.
- Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, Julia, or C++.
- Ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary and international collaborations.
- High level analytical capability.
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
- Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones.
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively.
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes.
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project.
- Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort.
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly.
Informal enquiries to Professor Sadegh Soudjani, email: s.soudjani@bham.ac.uk
We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy.
Research Fellow in Formal Methods for Robotics and AI Safety - School of Computer Science - 107478 - Grade 7 in Birmingham employer: The University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham offers an exceptional work environment for the Research Fellow in Formal Methods for Robotics and AI Safety, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. With access to cutting-edge research projects and interdisciplinary partnerships across Europe, employees benefit from ample opportunities for professional growth, including publishing in leading venues and mentoring PhD students. The university is committed to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability, ensuring a supportive atmosphere where every staff member can thrive.
Contact Details:
The University of Birmingham Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Formal Methods for Robotics and AI Safety - School of Computer Science - 107478 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Birmingham, especially in the School of Computer Science. A friendly chat can give us insights into the team culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the research topics mentioned in the job description. Brush up on formal verification and AI safety techniques so we can impress them with our knowledge and enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase our passion for interdisciplinary collaboration! Highlight any past experiences where we've worked with diverse teams, as this role involves working with robotics and AI researchers across Europe.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team at the University of Birmingham!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Formal Methods for Robotics and AI Safety - School of Computer Science - 107478 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the role, so don’t be afraid to express your unique communication style.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the Research Fellow position. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are truly interested.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t hold back on sharing your accomplishments! Whether it’s publications, projects, or relevant experience, we want to know what makes you stand out in the field of formal methods for robotics and AI safety.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on formal verification, control theory, and AI safety. Familiarise yourself with the latest research in these areas, especially as they relate to robotics and multi-agent systems. Being able to discuss recent advancements or challenges in your field will show your genuine interest and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or C++. Bring examples of your previous work, such as projects or publications, that highlight your experience with mathematical modelling and computational tool development. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can contribute immediately.
✨Engage with the Team
Since this role involves interdisciplinary collaboration, be ready to discuss how you've worked effectively in teams before. Think of examples where you’ve successfully communicated complex ideas to non-experts or collaborated across different fields. This will show that you can thrive in a diverse environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the research group’s current projects or future directions. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also your critical thinking skills. Asking about their approach to safe autonomy or how they integrate AI into their research can spark a great conversation.
