Overview
This announcement highlights three postdoctoral positions available at the University of São Paulo (USP) in São Carlos, Brazil. The roles are part of a two-year research initiative sponsored by Petrobras, aimed at enhancing the application of mobile robots for autonomous inspections in refineries and oil platforms. This project is significant for the AI and robotics community as it addresses real-world challenges in industrial settings, leveraging advanced robotic technologies.
Background & Relevance
Mobile robotics is a rapidly evolving field, particularly in the context of industrial applications. The ability of robots to navigate and operate autonomously in complex environments is crucial for improving efficiency and safety in sectors such as oil and gas. This research project will explore various robotic platforms and their capabilities in harsh conditions, contributing to advancements in autonomous systems and their practical implementations.
Key Details
- Location: University of São Paulo, São Carlos Campus, Brazil
- Duration: 2 years (renewable)
- Start Date: As soon as possible
- Salary: Competitive, above average for the region
- Platforms Involved:
- Legged robots: Boston Dynamics Spot, ANYbotics ANYmal, Unitree B2
- Wheeled and hybrid robots: Taurob Inspector, Ascento
- Aerial robots: Flybotix ASIO
Eligibility & Participation
Candidates should possess a Ph.D. in Robotics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline. The positions are designed for researchers with a strong publication record in reputable robotics conferences or journals, and who have expertise in areas such as autonomous navigation, motion/path planning, and reinforcement learning. Hands-on experience with mobile robotic platforms is highly desirable, along with proficient programming skills in languages like C++, Python, and ROS.
Submission or Application Guidelines
Interested applicants should compile the following documents into a single PDF file and send it to ricardo.godoy@alumni.usp.br and becker@sc.usp.br:
– A brief cover letter detailing background and interest in the position
– Curriculum Vitae, including a list of publications
– Contact information for 2–3 references
– (Optional) Links to code repositories or project portfolios
Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.
More Information
This research initiative is pivotal in advancing the capabilities of mobile robots in challenging environments, which is essential for industries that require high levels of automation and reliability. The outcomes of this project could lead to significant improvements in operational safety and efficiency in the oil and gas sector, showcasing the importance of interdisciplinary research in robotics and AI.
Conclusion
This is an excellent opportunity for researchers eager to contribute to the field of mobile robotics and work on impactful projects. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and join a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of autonomous systems in industrial applications.
Category: PhD & Postdoc Positions
Tags: robotics, autonomous navigation, reinforcement learning, mobile robotics, computer science, electrical engineering, motion planning, legged robots, aerial robots, University of São Paulo, Petrobras, research positions
