Two Post Doc positions on foundation models for robot programming and control in in dynamic and unpredictable environments
- (2400007I)

Project: Horizon Europe - HORIZON-RIA - Acronym: TORNADO - Project number: 101189557
Commitment & contract: collaborator, 2 years, temporary contract
Location: Center for Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Via S. Quirico, 19d, 16163 Genova
WHO WE ARE
At IIT we work enthusiastically to develop human-centered Science and Technology to tackle some of the most pressing societal challenges of our times and transfer these technologies to the production system and society. Our Genoa headquarter is strictly inter-connected with our 11 centers around Italy and two outer-stations based in the US for a truly interdisciplinary experience.
JOB DESCRIPTION
We are looking for talented and motivated postdoctoral researchers to advance the field of adaptive AI and cognitive pipelines in robotics. This position will focus on developing adaptive foundational models (FMs) that empower robots to autonomously adjust their cognitive processes and decision-making when deployed in dynamic and unpredictable environments, significantly reducing the likelihood of AI failures.
As a postdoc in our team, your main responsibilities will include:

• Leading the development of robust, adaptive foundational models for real-time, autonomous adjustments to evolving conditions, objectives, and operational constraints.
• Conducting advanced research on preventing AI failures by designing adaptive mechanisms that enhance system resilience across various scenarios.
• Analyzing, testing, and refining adaptive models in both simulated and real-world environments to ensure reliability, scalability, and effectiveness.
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including engineers and domain experts, to integrate these adaptive models into robotic platforms, enhancing their decision-making and learning capabilities.
• Contributing to publications, presentations, and outreach efforts to disseminate findings and collaborate with external partners in academia and industry.

This position offers an opportunity to be at the forefront of adaptive AI research, with the potential to shape the future of robotics by making systems smarter, more flexible, and capable of handling complex, real-world tasks.
YOUR TEAM
You will be working in a multicultural and multi-disciplinary group, where biomedical, robotics, mechanical, electrical, and computer science engineers collaborate, each with their own expertise, to carry out common research.
The Human- Robot interfaces and Interaction (HRI²) Research Unit is coordinated by Dr. Arash Ajoudani, who has extensive experience in physical human-robot interaction, applied machine learning, mobile manipulation, robust and adaptive control, assistive robotics, and tele-robotics.

• A Ph D in Machine Learning, robotics, or similar disciplines
• Strong skills in Python and C++
• Experience on frameworks like Pytorch or Tensor Flow
• Experience with ROS
• Confidence with version control tools (specifically git)
• A strong publication record
• The ability to properly report, organize and publish research data
• Documented experience in coaching junior scientists
• Good command in spoken and written English

• Good communication skills
• Strong problem solving attitude
• High motivation to learn
• Spirit of innovation and creativity
• Good in time and priority management
• Ability to work in a challenging and international environment
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a highly interdisciplinary environment

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Competitive salary package for international standards
• Private health care coverage
• Wide range of staff discounts

WHAT’S IN FOR YOU?

• An equal, inclusive and multicultural environment ready to welcome you with open arms. Discrimination is a big NO for us!
• We like contamination and encourage you to mingle and discover what other people are up to in our labs!
• If paperwork is not your piece of cake, we got you! There’s a specialized team working to help you with that, especially during your relocation!
• If you are a startupper or a business-minded person, you will find some exceptionally gifted professionals ready to nurture and guide your attitude and aspirations.
• If you want your work to have a real impact, in IIT you will find an innovative and stimulating culture that drives our mission to contribute to the improvement and well-being of society!
• We stick to our values! Integrity, courage, societal responsibility and inclusivity are the values we believe in! They define us and our actions in our everyday life. They guide us to accomplish IIT mission!

If you feel this tickles your appetite for change, do not hesitate and apply!
Please submit your application using the online form and including a detailed CV, university transcripts, cover letter (outlining motivation, experience and qualifications) and contact details of 2 references.
The position will be filled in as soon as a suitable candidate will be found.
Please note that this position is pending agreement signature
We inform you that the information you provide will be used solely for the purposes of evaluating and selecting professional profiles in order to meet the requirements of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia.
Your data will be processed by Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, based in Genoa, Via Morego 30, acting as Data Controller, in compliance with the rules on protection of personal data, including those related to data security.
Please also note that, pursuant to articles 15 et. seq. of European Regulation no. 679/2016 (General Data Protection Regulation), you may exercise your rights at any time by contacting the Data Protection Officer (phone Tel: +39 010 28961 - email: dpo@iit.it ).

Primary Location GENOVA

Job Postdoc

Organization Human-Robot Interfaces and Interaction

Job Posting Oct 25, 2024, 9:25:12 AM