Research Fellow (Robotics/Mechatronics)

College of Design and Engineering; Singapore; On-site; SGD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

College of Design and Engineering in Singapore seeks a postdoctoral researcher to lead end-to-end R&D for next-generation pipeline inspection and repair robotics. You will coordinate with RAs, partners, and the PI to deliver integrated outcomes across mechanical design, perception, and AI-based defect detection.

You will supervise students, contribute to publications and patents, and guide prototypes through lab and field trials at Kent Ridge Campus.

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.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end R&D for pipeline inspection and repair robotics, coordinating with RAs and partners.
• Oversee novel mechanical designs, perception, and AI-driven defect detection.
• Mentor and supervise researchers and students; prepare publications and reports.
• Validate designs through lab and field trials with industry partners.

Skills

Robotics design

SLAM

Multimodal perception

ML for defect detection

Project leadership

Education

PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or Computer Vision

Job description

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.

More Information

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Organization: College of Design and Engineering

Department : Mechanical Engineering

Employee Referral Eligible: No

Job requisition ID : 31141