Scientist (SRA/ARM), SIMTech(858)

A*STAR RESEARCH ENTITIES; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A*STAR RESEARCH ENTITIES invites applications for an Embodied AI Scientist to advance actuator-centric embodied intelligence in humanoid robotics. You will develop learning-enabled control and decision-making methods tightly coupled with actuators, sensing and motion dynamics, joining robotics, AI and mechatronics.

The role covers experimental validation with joint modules and testbeds, integration of mechanical transmissions, and deployment of reinforcement learning for energy-efficient, safe

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant engineering field.
• Experience in humanoid robotics or actuated systems is preferred.
• Proficiency in programming and numerical tools.

Responsibilities

• Research embodied AI methods for humanoid robots focusing on actuation and control.
• Develop learning- and model-based control accounting for actuator dynamics.
• Integrate multi-modal sensing and reinforcement learning in control loops.
• Contribute to safe, constrained learning for locomotion and manipulation.
• Lead experimental studies on humanoid joint modules and testbeds.

Skills

Actuated robotics

C/C++

Python

MATLAB

Reinforcement learning

Control systems

Machine learning

Experimentation

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Mechanical, Electrical, Control or Mechatronics Engineering

Tools

Ansys Maxwell

Comsol Multiphysics

JMAG

Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking for an Embodied AI Scientist to conduct fundamental and applied research in humanoid robotics, with a particular emphasis on actuator-centric embodied intelligence. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of learning-enabled control and decision-making frameworks that are deeply integrated with the physical dynamics, sensing and actuation of humanoid robotic systems. You are expected to work in a multidisciplinary research group spanning robotics, control, artificial intelligence and mechatronic system

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Conduct research on embodied AI methods for humanoid robots, focusing on joint-level actuation, compliance, force interaction and energy-efficient motion
• Develop learning-based and model-based control strategies that explicitly account for actuator dynamics, nonlinearities and other physical constraints
• Integrate multi-modal sensing which includes closed-loop control of position, force/torque, tactile and visual feedback as well as deployment of learning control architectures such as reinforcement learning
• Adapt Controller tuning transfer challenges through system identification, domain adaptation and adaptive control methods
• Investigate safe and constrained learning approaches for humanoid locomotion and manipulation under uncertainty.
• Integration of the mechanical transmission, actuator and control system into the humanoid robot to demonstrate the embodied intelligence
• Design and conduct experimental studies using humanoid joint modules, actuation testbeds and full-body robotic platforms

JOB REQUIREMENT

• Ph.D. degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Control or Mechatronics Engineering
• 3-5 years of work experience or similar is preferred
• All candidates are welcome to apply

We value the following skills and experience:

• Experience with the development and control of humanoid robotics systems
• Knowledge of machine learning applications in motion control, such as reinforcement learning will be a plus
• Good understanding of the various actuation principles and up to date with state-of-the-art actuation technologies
• Experience with the design and integration of BLDC and/or PMSM electric motors in robotics joint module
• Familiarity with numerical simulation software tools e.g. Ansys maxwell, Comsol Multiphysics, JMAG
• Experience with the prototyping and assembly of actuator components e.g. frameless motor assembly
• Good working knowledge of digital control techniques and hardware implementation in embedded controllers
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, Python, or MATLAB.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., CAN, EtherCAT, Modbus).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Good communications skills and the ability to work in a team