Research support in laboratory automation

IMDEA Materials Institute; Getafe; On-site; EUR 20,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

IMDEA Materials Institute in Getafe, Spain, is seeking a research assistant to join the Accelerated Materials Discovery group. The successful candidate will help develop an autonomous laboratory utilizing collaborative robots and AI for materials design.

This role involves setting up experiments focused on optimizing hydrogel compositions by using advanced instruments and machine learning techniques. Candidates must be proficient in English and have a background in engineering.

Qualifications

• Current student or completed degree in relevant engineering fields.
• Familiar with CAD design and 3D printing techniques.
• Proficient in programming (C, C++, or Python).
• Knowledge of microcontrollers like Arduino or Raspberry.
• Experience with automated laboratory instruments or robots.
• Fluency in English is required.
• Prior research experience is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing an autonomous laboratory.
• Conduct experiments focusing on hydrogel composition optimization.
• Utilize collaborative robots and AI in materials design.

Skills

Engineering (materials, industrial, robotics)

CAD design

3D printing

Programming (C, C++, Python)

Microcontrollers (Arduino, Raspberry)

Automated laboratory instruments

Fluent English

Prior research experience

Education

Current student or completed degree in engineering

Tools

Opentrons

Job description

IMDEA Materials Institute is a public research organization founded in 2007 by Madrid’s regional government to carry out research of excellence in Material Science and Engineering by attracting talent from all over the world to work in a multidisciplinary environment. The Institute has more than 120 researchers from 22 nationalities and has become one of the leading research centers in materials in Europe, having received the María de Maeztu seal of excellence from the Spanish government. The research activities focus on materials for transport, energy, and health care and the Institute has state‑of‑the‑art facilities for processing, characterization and simulation of advanced materials.

Position Summary

Accelerated Materials Discovery group is seeking a research assistant to help develop an autonomous laboratory. The successful candidate will join a team employing collaborative robots and AI in materials design. The role will be responsible for setting up an autonomous experiment focused on optimization of hydrogel compositions, involving a liquid‑handling robot, a collaborative robot and additional instruments for materials processing and characterization. The experimental workflow will be guided by machine learning.

Requirements

• Current student or completed degree in engineering (materials, industrial, robotics, etc.)
• Familiarity with CAD design and 3D printing
• Knowledge of programming language (C, C++, or Python)
• Familiarity with microcontrollers and accessories (Arduino, Raspberry)
• Experience with automated laboratory instruments or robots such as Opentrons
• Fluent in English
• Prior research experience is a plus

Conditions

Depending on the agreement with the selected candidate, this will be a limited‑term part‑time or full‑time position.

Language

The working language of the Institute is English and full command of the English language is required in all positions.

Equal Opportunity

IMDEA Materials Institute is committed to equal opportunities, diversity and the promotion of a healthy work environment and work‑life balance. Female applicants are encouraged to apply to our research and technical positions. See our Gender Equality Plan and our Code of Ethics.