Research Fellow (Robotics/Mechatronics)

Interested applicants are invited to apply directly at the NUS Career Portal. Please note your application will only be processed if you apply via NUS Career Portal.

NUS Career Portal link: https://careers.nus.edu.sg/job/Research-Fellow-%28RoboticsMechatronics%29/31141-en_GB/

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Job Description

Overall Role

Lead the end-to-end research and development of next-generation pipeline inspection and repair robotic systems, covering mechanical design innovation, perception and navigation capabilities, and AI-driven defect detection. The Postdoc will act as the technical lead, coordinating with RAs, industry partners, and PI to deliver integrated R&D outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

A.Novel Mechanical Design & System Embodiment

• Lead the conceptualisation, modelling, and prototyping of flexible joint mechanisms, wheel assemblies, and repair/re-lining modules.
• Conduct structural, dynamic, and kinematic analyses to optimise robustness, manufacturability, and operational performance in pipeline environments.

B. Defect Detection & Multimodal ML

• Oversee the development of vision-/LiDAR-based defect detection algorithms for cracks, chokage, deformation, corrosion, etc.
• Establish datasets, annotation standards, training pipelines, and benchmarking protocols for ML models.
• Integrate uncertainty estimation and real-time inference strategies for deployment on embedded platforms.

C. Navigation, Mapping & Perception

• Lead R&D in 3D mapping, localization, sensor fusion, and risk-aware perception for complex pipes and confined spaces.
• Supervise implementation of SLAM, multi-sensor calibration, real-time onboard mapping, and traversability analysis.

D. Module Functions & Repair Technologies

• Provide technical leadership in mechanism design for repair, re-lining, or chokage removal modules.
• Work with industrial partners to validate and iterate designs through lab and field trials.

E. Project Integration & Mentorship

• Integrate mechanical, perception, and ML components into a unified robotic platform.
• Supervise and technically mentor Research Assistants, Master and Undergraduate project students.
• Prepare publications, patents, reports, and present outcomes to funding agencies.

Qualifications

• PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Vision, or a closely related field.
• Strong expertise in robot design and at least one of: SLAM, multimodal perception, ML for defect detection.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex R&D projects with prototypes and experiments.
• Good publication record in robotics/AI/automation.