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- Tasks: Join a team to develop learning-based control policies for large-scale robot systems.
- Company: Be part of the renowned Prorok Lab at the University of Cambridge, known for cutting-edge research.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience with real robots and work in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Contribute to groundbreaking research that pushes the limits of robotic coordination in real-world settings.
- Qualifications: Experience with reinforcement learning algorithms and real robot deployments is essential.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term position for 12 months, ideal for motivated individuals eager to innovate.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months. Applications are invited for a Research Assistant (RA) to join the Prorok Lab in the Department of Computer Science and Technology, at the University of Cambridge, UK. The Research Assistant will work together with a team of students and research collaborators on the development of learning-based control policies that facilitate the coordination of large-scale robot systems (ground and aerial).
The ideal candidate will possess hands-on experience with designing and implementing reinforcement learning algorithms, and deploying them onto real robots. They will be working with a team composed of PhD students, Research Assistants and Postdocs that is developing novel multi-robot architectures for practical, real-world settings. Current solutions to many of the coordination challenges use simplifying assumptions and simulated operational environments to achieve success. Our team is pushing these assumptions to their limits, with the aim to break the barrier to real-world and outdoor deployments with large robot teams.
As a result, we need to design systems and algorithms that are robust and resilient, while also offering scalability to larger swarms and highly dynamic environments. The RA will also lead in-field testing and deployments. Therefore, we require someone with excellent implementation skills, and substantial experience with real robot deployments.
The Prorok Lab in the Dept. of Computer Science & Technology has a variety of robotic platforms (aerial and ground), and boasts expertise in controlling and deploying them in practice, as well as in designing coordination strategies for them. Our recent work on RL and graph neural networks (GNNs) demonstrate some of our key research directions relevant for this position.
A high degree of self-motivation, research-oriented thinking, and a drive for getting real robotic systems up and running are all essential traits for this position. The Department of Computer Science and Technology is an academic department that encompasses computer science along with many aspects of engineering, technology and mathematics. We have a world wide reputation for academic research with consistent top research ratings. The Department has an open and collaborative culture, supporting revolutionary fundamental computer science research, strong cross-cutting collaborations internally and externally, and ideas which transform computing outside the University.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Assistant in Machine Learning for Aerial Swarms (Fixed Term) employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Machine Learning for Aerial Swarms (Fixed Term)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in reinforcement learning and multi-robot systems. Being able to discuss recent research or breakthroughs during your interview can demonstrate your passion and knowledge in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase any hands-on experience you have with real robot deployments. If you've worked on similar projects, be prepared to share specific examples of challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former members of the Prorok Lab or related departments. Engaging with them can provide insights into the lab's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to teamwork and collaboration, as this role involves working closely with PhD students and postdocs. Highlight any previous experiences where you successfully collaborated on complex projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Machine Learning for Aerial Swarms (Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Research Assistant position. Familiarise yourself with the Prorok Lab's work on reinforcement learning algorithms and multi-robot architectures.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your hands-on experience with reinforcement learning and real robot deployments in your CV. Be specific about your previous projects and any relevant skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your motivation for the role and your understanding of the challenges faced in coordinating large-scale robot systems. Mention how your background makes you a suitable candidate for the team.
Follow Application Instructions: When submitting your application, ensure you quote the reference NR46088 as specified. Double-check that all required documents are included and that your application is submitted through the correct online portal.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with reinforcement learning algorithms and real robot deployments. Bring examples of past projects or research that demonstrate your ability to design and implement these systems effectively.
✨Understand the Team's Research Focus
Familiarise yourself with the Prorok Lab's recent work, especially in RL and graph neural networks. This will help you align your answers with their current research directions and show your genuine interest in their projects.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, particularly in dynamic environments. Prepare to discuss how you've tackled challenges in previous projects, especially those involving coordination of large-scale robotic systems.
✨Exhibit Self-Motivation and Collaboration
Highlight your self-motivation and ability to work collaboratively within a team. Share examples of how you've contributed to team projects and your approach to leading in-field testing and deployments.
