Research Associate in Modelling and Robotics

About the role

We are seeking a motivated Research Associate to join our research team at the University of Bath, contributing to the ARIA-funded Robot Dexterity Programme. The project aims to advance the fundamental understanding, modelling & control of robotic systems, with a particular focus on developing new analytical and computational frameworks for dexterous soft robotic manipulators. The successful candidate will contribute to ground breaking research at the intersection of computational mechanics, robotics and intelligent modelling, working within a multidisciplinary team to bridge fundamental physical principles and practical robotic applications.

Key responsibilities include:

• High-fidelity computational modelling: Develop and validate advanced physics-based models of robotic systems, including nonlinear mechanics, structural dynamics, large deformation and multi physics interactions, using numerical simulation tools such as COMSOL, ABAQUS or ANSYS.
• Robotic modelling and dynamics: Investigate the kinematics, dynamics and actuation of robotic manipulators, particularly soft and continuum robots, and establish computational frameworks that capture their complex physical behaviour.
• Experimental validation: Design and conduct experiments to validate high-fidelity computational models of robotic systems, integrating experimental measurements with numerical simulations to assess model accuracy, investigate dynamic behaviour & support the development of robotic manipulation and control.
• Research collaboration and validation: Work closely with researchers in robotics, modelling and control to validate theoretical developments through simulations and experiments, contribute to scientific publications, and support the delivery of project achievements.

About you

You will have a PhD (or be close to completion) in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Computational Mechanics, Applied Mathematics or a closely related fields. Experience in robotics, finite element analysis, multi physics simulation would be particularly advantageous. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to an ambitious ARIA research programme, combining fundamental engineering science with the development of next-generation intelligent robotic systems.

We are looking for a motivated researcher with a strong background in computational modelling and robotics, who enjoys tackling challenging engineering problems and working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.

Essential qualifications, skills and experience:

• A PhD (or nearing completion) in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Computational Mechanics, Applied Mathematics or a closely related STEM field, or equivalent relevant research experience.
• Strong knowledge and practical experience in high-fidelity computational modelling, particularly finite element analysis (FEA), nonlinear mechanics, structural dynamics or multi physics simulation. Experience using numerical simulation software such as COMSOL, ABAQUS or ANSYS, or equivalent computational modelling tools.
• A good understanding of robotic systems, including kinematics, dynamics, actuation & control.
• Strong programming and numerical analysis skills, preferably in MATLAB, Python or equivalent environments.
• Ability to conduct independent research, analyse complex technical problems & communicate findings effectively.
• Good interpersonal and collaborative skills, with the ability to contribute effectively to a multidisciplinary research team.

We welcome applications from candidates with diverse technical backgrounds who can demonstrate relevant expertise and a willingness to develop new skills.

Further information

The role is offered on a full-time (36.5 hours per week) fixed-term basis with an expected start date of January/February 2027.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Professor Min Pan; .

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