Postdoc - Robotics and Embodied AI

Brookhaven Science Associates, LLC; Upton (NY); On-site; USD 71,900 - 119,000; Full time

Job summary

Brookhaven Science Associates, LLC is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in robotics and embodied AI at Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, NY. The role involves conducting research on AI and robotics, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and publishing outcomes.

A Ph.D. in computer science or related field is required, along with strong programming and research skills. The position offers a salary range of $71,900 to $119,000 annually depending on qualifications and experience.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. awarded within the last 5 years.
• Strong understanding and experience in machine learning and AI.
• Demonstrated publication record in relevant fields.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in embodied AI and robotics.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.
• Publish research outcomes and proposals.

Skills

Knowledge of AI and robotics

Programming skills

Machine learning experience

Research publication record

Education

Ph.D. in computer science, engineering or related fields

Tools

3D modeling software

Simulation environments for robotics

Job description

About the Position

Brookhaven National Laboratory’s AI Department welcomes qualified candidates to apply to a new postdoctoral research position in robotics and embodied AI. The Scientific Embodied Agents Lab (SEAL) within the Computing and Data Sciences (CDS) directorate is working at the intersection of AI and robotics to investigate advanced robotics and embodied AI technologies supporting current scientific workflows and enabling new capabilities. The focus is on leveraging embodied AI to accelerate scientific discovery, enable robust knowledge capture and transfer, and support experimental science in novel ways beyond traditional automation techniques.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct fundamental and applied research in embodied AI, agentic AI, and robotics, including software‑focused research (e.g., robotics foundation models, world models, simulations) and hardware‑focused research (robotic perception, control, manipulation, and interaction).
• Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams across BNL and with academic and industry partners.
• Conceive and execute high‑quality research ideas in partnership with AI Department colleagues and mentors.
• Publish and communicate research outcomes and participate in proposal and collaboration‑building activities.

Position Requirements – Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ph.D. in computer science, computer/electrical engineering or related fields (e.g., applied mathematics, statistics) awarded within the past 5 years.
• Strong theoretical understanding and practical experience in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and robotics research communities.
• Demonstrated publication record in AI/ML and/or robotics fields.
• Excellent programming and computer science skills.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Practical experience designing and developing novel AI/ML models.
• Experience with state‑of‑the‑art foundation models, agentic AI models, and simulation environments for robotics.
• Hands‑on experience with robotics and/or ML‑based work with relevant electronics and components (sensors, motors, controllers, etc.).
• Experience with 3D modeling, 3D printing, and custom hardware.
• Experience in developing, training, evaluating, and deploying large AI/ML models in HPC and cluster computing environments.
• Experience with electronics and mechanical diagnostics, maintenance, and customization (e.g., disassembly, soldering, driver troubleshooting).
• Experience working in multidisciplinary collaborations.

Other Information

Initial 2‑year term appointment subject to renewal contingent on performance and funding.

Applicants must have received a Ph.D. by the commencement of employment. BNL policy limits eligible candidates for research associate appointments to no more than 5 years of relevant post‑doc and/or R&D experience (excluding time for family planning, military service, illness, or other life‑changing events).

Location and Work Conditions

This is a fully onsite position located at Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, NY.

Compensation

The full salary range for this position is $71,900 – $119,000 per year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualifications, education, and experience and considered with the internal peer group.

Access and Identification

Brookhaven National Laboratory requires all non‑badged personnel, including visitors, to produce a REAL‑ID or REAL‑ID‑compliant documentation to access the laboratory. A REAL‑ID‑compliant document is required for entry to the site, including for interview access, in accordance with the federal REAL ID Act.

Equal Opportunity / Affiantive Action

Brookhaven Science Associates is an equal‑opportunity employer. The employer is committed to ensuring that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other federally, state, or locally protected class. Veterans and individuals with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations.

*VEVRAA Federal Contractor BSA employees are subject to restrictions related to participation in foreign government talent recruitment programs, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A.