Postdoctoral Scientist: Human Biomechanics

Honda Research Institute USA, Inc.; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading robotics research institute in California is looking for a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to advance the field of computational biomechanics. The successful candidate will develop novel computational human biomechanical models to ensure safe physical interactions. Essential qualifications include a PhD and a strong background in machine learning, optimization, and biomechanics software. This role involves collaboration across teams and contribution to significant research outputs, such as publications and patents.

Qualifications

• Expert knowledge in human computational biomechanics and strong publication track record.
• Extensive experience in optimization and machine learning methods.
• Proficient in Python or C++ with hands-on experience in biomechanical software.

Responsibilities

• Research and implement novel computational biomechanics models.
• Evaluate models through synthetic and real-world data.
• Develop algorithms for robotic motion planning.
• Contribute to internal research reports and academic publications.

Skills

Human computational biomechanics

Optimization methods

Machine learning

Python

C++

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Tools

AnyBody

OpenSim

Job description

Honda Research Institute USA (HRI-US) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join our Intelligence Robotics Research Division. The postdoctoral scientist is expected to contribute to the development of novel computational human biomechanical models for safe physical interaction. This is a multidisciplenary position that requires working at the intersection of computational biomechanics, kinesiology, robotics, and physics-based simulation.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, ideate, and implement novel computational biomechanics models for safe physical interaction with human.
• Evaluate the proposed models through synthetic and real-world data.
• Develop, implement and validate algorithms and software for robotic motion planning.
• Contribute to internal research reports and presentations.
• Contribute to a portfolio of patents, academic publications, and prototypes to demonstrate research value.
• Assist with supervising of research interns.
• Design and run user studies or experiments with human participants.
• Collaborate with our team of engineers and scientists in Honda's regional and global R&D offices, as well as with our partners in academia and industry.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Kinesiology and Sport Management, Neuroscience, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Expert knowledge in human computational biomechanics, neuromusculoskeletal models, kinesiology and related areas with strong track record of publications on development of novel computational models.
• Extensive experience in optimization and machine learning methods.
• Proficient in Python or C++ and visualization tools
• Experience working with human biomechanical software (e.g. AnyBody, OpenSim)

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience in developing computational models for improved ergonomics in human-robot interaction
• Biomechanical data collection and model development experience using MoCap, IMUs, physiological sensors, etc.
• Experience in developing optimization-based robotic motion planning and control algorithms.
• Experience designing and running user studies or experiments with human participants.