Lead Researcher in Physical AI & Human-Centered Robotics

Vrije Universiteit Brussel; Brussel Hoofdstad; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Homeworking options

Telework allowance

Internet fee allowance

35 days of leave

Hospitalisation insurance

Public transport reimbursement

Campus meals

Sports discounts

Nursery near campus

Training & learning platforms

Job summary

Vrije Universiteit Brussel in Brussels seeks a Senior Researcher (Post-Doc) for SMIT to lead cutting-edge research in Physical AI and human-centered robotics, including multi-agent systems and human–machine interaction. The role combines 100% project-funded research with a 10% assistant professorship at VUB, plus opportunities for collaboration with imec and industry.

The position is funded for at least three years to foster an academic career, grow a research portfolio, and advance SMIT's

Qualifications

• PhD in Economics / Business Administration, Engineering, Robotics, CS, or HCI.
• 5–10 years of relevant academic or research experience with a strong publication record.
• Experience with EU-funded projects (FP7, Horizon Europe, etc.).
• Willingness to relocate to Brussels and collaborate across international partners.
• Excellent academic writing and English communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead original, internationally competitive research in Physical AI and human-centered robotics.
• Publish in high-impact international journals and present at leading conferences.
• Lead applications for EU-funded research projects and supervise PhD students.
• Teach and co-teach courses as part of the 10% professorship at VUB.
• Collaborate with imec and the VUB network and engage with industry partners.
• Represent VUB/SMIT at international conferences, workshops, and EU project meetings.

Skills

Quantitative research

Data-driven methods

Academic writing

International collaborations

Education

PhD in Economics / Business Admin / Engineering / Robotics / CS / HCI

Job description

Vrije Universiteit Brussel in Brussels seeks a Senior Researcher (Post-Doc) for SMIT to lead cutting-edge research in Physical AI and human-centered robotics, including multi-agent systems and human–machine interaction. The role combines 100% project-funded research with a 10% assistant professorship at VUB, plus opportunities for collaboration with imec and industry.

The position is funded for at least three years to foster an academic career, grow a research portfolio, and advance SMIT's