At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to develop cutting-edge autonomous capabilities for miniature UAVs.
- Company: Be part of a dynamic team at the University of Manchester.
- Benefits: Enjoy 29 days annual leave, pension contributions, and flexible working options.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and encourage unique perspectives in our collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in robotics and explore innovative technologies.
- Qualifications: Experience in SLAM, aerial robot design, machine learning, and 3D simulation.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Research Associate – Small UAV Automation. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of autonomous capabilities for a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with a footprint of less than six inches. The project will explore the design, development, and utilisation of an external computing platform to enable advanced autonomous capabilities for miniature UAVs.
You will be responsible for:
- Identification of the sensing requirements and system configuration for both the UAV and the ground-based computing station.
- Design, development, and integration of a prototype system incorporating the selected sensors, communication infrastructure, and autonomous control architecture.
- Experimental testing and validation of the prototype through a simple autonomous mission representative of the intended operational environment.
- Integrating complementary areas of expertise to advance the autonomy of miniature UAVs through the use of external computing platforms and novel sensing solutions.
We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.
About You
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:
Essential Criteria:
- Experience in SLAM
- Experience in aerial robot design and development
- Experience in machine learning
- Experience in 3D simulation
- Experience in PX4 firmware
Desirable Criteria:
- Experience with ROS and/or ROS 2.
- Ability to disseminate research to a non-technical audience.
- Ability to develop user experience front-end solutions.
- Interest in robotic autonomy.
We value transferable skills and real-world experience as much as formal qualifications. Our benefits include:
- Generous employer contribution pension
- 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
- Ride to work and EV car scheme available
For more information, please see University of Manchester Benefits. You can also find information on our Flexible and Hybrid working here. We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community where we are able, within the law, to question and test received wisdom, express new ideas and explore controversial or unpopular topics and opinions.
Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy.
Enquiries About The Role, Shortlisting And Interviews
Name: Pawel Ladosz
Email Address: pawel.ladosz@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries and administrative support: recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk
Technical and job portal support: https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
Research Associate – Small UAV Automation in Whitehaven employer: The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to comprehensive benefits including leading pension schemes and health services, all while contributing to the strategic direction of a prestigious institution in a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and academic excellence.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate – Small UAV Automation in Whitehaven
✨Dive into Robotics Meetups
Get yourself out there and connect with others in the robotics-automation field by attending local meetups and industry events. These gatherings are where the magic happens, and you might just rub shoulders with someone from The University of Manchester or get insider tips on upcoming vacancies.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Create a portfolio that highlights your robotics projects, whether they're personal, academic, or freelance. Share this on platforms like GitHub or your personal website, as it shows potential employers, like The University of Manchester, what you're made of and your hands-on experience in the field.
✨Utilise University Resources
If you're fresh out of university or still connected, don't underestimate your career services. They often have exclusive access to job fairs and employer networking events in technical fields like ours, so make sure you tap into those resources to discover openings at companies like The University of Manchester.
✨Engage in Online Communities
Join online communities that focus on robotics and automation, such as forums or LinkedIn groups. Engage in conversations, ask questions, and share insights. This not only builds your visibility but could also lead to direct connections at firms like The University of Manchester, which might have the full-time role you're after.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate – Small UAV Automation in Whitehaven
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the robotics and automation field, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills on your CV. Include specific programming languages, software platforms, and any relevant robotics experience. Don’t forget to mention any projects or systems you've developed – this info can really make you stand out!
Portfolio Perfection:Having a polished portfolio can speak volumes for a role in robotics. Include any relevant case studies, designs, or prototypes you've worked on. If you've participated in competitions or hackathons, showcase these achievements as well – they show initiative and problem-solving skills!
Tailored Cover Letter Magic:In your cover letter, don’t just tell us that you love robotics—tell us why you’re passionate about automation specifically! Explain how your skills can contribute to The University of Manchester’s projects and remember to connect your past experiences to what you'll be doing in this role.
Certifications Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, such as in robotic process automation or machine learning, make sure they’re front and centre on your CV. These credentials show you're dedicated to your field and keep you up to date with industry standards – we love to see that!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Showcase Your Technical Wizardry
For a role in robotics and automation at The University of Manchester, it's crucial to demonstrate your technical skills. Be prepared to dive into specifics about the programming languages and tools you’ve used, like Python or ROS (Robot Operating System). Brush up on your knowledge of algorithms and control systems, as these might come up during technical questions.
✨Bring Your Projects to Life
With a full-time position in robotics, you should have a portfolio of your projects ready to show. Whether it's a robot you built for a competition or a simple automation script, make sure you can discuss the challenges you faced and how you solved them. This hands-on experience is gold and shows you can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
✨Think Like an Engineer
Expect some problem-solving scenarios during your interview. You might be asked to design a basic automation solution on the spot or troubleshoot a robotic system. Practising these types of technical questions can really set you apart, as they require critical thinking and a systematic approach to tackle problems.
✨Culture Fit Is Key!
Don’t underestimate the importance of cultural fit at The University of Manchester. They might ask about your teamwork experience and how you handle challenges with peers. Be ready to share examples of working in diverse teams, as collaboration is often central to projects in robotics and automation.
