At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop advanced robotic inspection systems for nuclear decommissioning using cutting-edge technology.
- Company: Join a collaborative team at the forefront of robotics and AI in the nuclear sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential for project extension, and hands-on mentoring from industry experts.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in robotics research with direct applications in the nuclear industry.
- Qualifications: PhD in robotics or related field, or equivalent experience; strong teamwork and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
The project has been funded through the Accelerator for Cumbria and Oxfordshire Robotics and the academic research theme of the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Collaboration (RAICo), a partnership between the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, UK Atomic Energy Authority, Sellafield Ltd and The University of Manchester. RAICo aims to accelerate the development and deployment of robotics and AI technologies for nuclear decommissioning and operates from the RAICo1 facility in Whitehaven, Cumbria.
The post will be based primarily at the RAICo1 site and will work in close collaboration with researchers from Strathclyde's SEARCH laboratory and a growing community of robotics and AI researchers based within RAICo1. Although initially advertised as a 1-year position, there is strong potential for extension subject to project success and anticipated follow-on funding.
The project will address the challenge of remotely inspecting hazardous and difficult-to-access infrastructure across the nuclear estate through the development of advanced robotic inspection systems. Building upon two successful phases of RAICo-funded research, the project will further develop a robotic inspection capability combining immersive telepresence, 3D reconstruction, robotically deployed ultrasonic non-destructive evaluation (NDE), and AI-assisted inspection workflows.
The successful candidate will contribute to the development of immersive VR-based inspection systems that integrate live and historical inspection data within a virtual environment to improve operator awareness, inspection repeatability, and real-time decision making. The role will also involve developing AI-assisted tools for inspection interpretation, integrating inspection sensors with robotic manipulators, and supporting the transition of research demonstrators into deployment-ready systems suitable for operational nuclear environments.
As a Research Associate, you will play a key role in the technical delivery of the project under the supervision of Prof Gordon Dobie and Prof Gareth Pierce. Dr William Jackson will provide hands-on technical mentoring and leadership throughout the project. The role will involve close collaboration with engineers and researchers from the University of Strathclyde, RAICo, FIS360, Sellafield Ltd and other industrial stakeholders to develop and validate proof-of-concept robotic inspection.
Applicants should hold a PhD in robotics, autonomous systems, inspection, AI, computer vision, or a closely related discipline, or possess equivalent industrial or research experience alongside a relevant degree. Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous:
- Robotic manipulation and teleoperation
- ROS and robotic software development
- VR systems
- Localisation and mapping
- Computer vision and AI for robotics
- Non-destructive evaluation and inspection technologies
- Deployment of robotic systems in challenging environments
You should have strong organisational, interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team and communicate complex technical ideas to a range of audiences. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge robotics research with direct industrial impact across the UK.
Robotic Inspection Engineer in Whitehaven employer: University of Strathclyde
As a Robotic Inspection Engineer at the RAICo1 facility in Whitehaven, Cumbria, you will be part of a pioneering team dedicated to advancing robotics and AI technologies for nuclear decommissioning. The company fosters a collaborative work culture, offering exceptional opportunities for professional growth through hands-on mentoring and engagement with leading researchers and industry stakeholders. With a focus on innovative projects and a commitment to employee development, this role provides a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in a cutting-edge field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Robotic Inspection Engineer 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 University of Strathclyde 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 University of Strathclyde, 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 University of Strathclyde.
✨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 University of Strathclyde, which might have the full-time role you're after.
We think you need these skills to ace Robotic Inspection Engineer 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 University of Strathclyde’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 University of Strathclyde
✨Showcase Your Technical Wizardry
For a role in robotics and automation at University of Strathclyde, 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 University of Strathclyde. 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.
