Experts who push the boundaries of what robots can do. From theoretical research to practical applications, these roles are at the heart of robotics innovation.
Robotics Research Scientists are the driving force behind the advancements in robotics technology. They work on a wide range of projects, from developing new algorithms for robot perception and motion planning to designing and testing cutting-edge robotic systems. These roles are typically found in research-heavy startups, universities, and the larger consultancies, where they collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems and bring new technologies to market.
A typical week is split between theoretical research, experimental testing, and collaboration with engineering teams.
A typical UK progression for robotics research scientists. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.
Assist in research projects, conduct literature reviews, and support data collection and analysis.
Lead specific research projects, design experiments, and contribute to the development of new algorithms and systems.
Oversee multiple research projects, mentor junior scientists, and collaborate with industry partners to commercialise research.
Direct major research initiatives, lead interdisciplinary teams, and influence the strategic direction of the organisation.
There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.
Complete a degree in robotics, computer science, or a related field, often followed by a PhD.
Gain hands-on experience through internships, research assistant roles, or postdoctoral positions.
Focus on a specific area of robotics, such as perception, motion planning, or human-robot interaction.
Work with industry partners to apply research findings to real-world problems and develop commercial products.
Take on leadership positions, managing research teams and directing major projects.
Influence the strategic direction of the organisation and contribute to the broader field of robotics through publications and conferences.
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Flarebright Bicester £39,000 – £49,000 pa
Contributes across the full development lifecycle, from concept and algorithm design to system integration, testing and troubleshooting of safety-critical navigation and autonomy software in C++. Works with a multidisciplinary team on real-time embedded systems, hardware/software-in-the-loop testing and flight test activities, producing design documentation and test reports.
Humanoid London
Owns the development, deployment and operation of an existing data platform, spanning cloud infrastructure, full-stack development, platform and data engineering. Leads external contractors as their sole point of contact, translating internal requirements into technical briefs and validating deliverables. Combines hands-on engineering with technical leadership and delivery ownership.
Humanoid London
Lead the physical environment strategy across lab, workspace, test, integration, prototype manufacturing and office areas, owning brownfield retrofits and complex fit-out programmes from scoping to commissioning. Manage external architects, contractors and consultants while overseeing general office operations, reception and front-of-house teams across global sites.
Autodiscovery Wantage
Lead the design and deployment of autonomous robotic systems, owning software architecture across perception, planning and control. Work spans prototyping, simulation and field testing, integrating with hardware teams while mentoring engineers and shaping technical roadmaps. Requires depth in C++, ROS2, SLAM and real-time systems.
Humanoid London
Operate, maintain and optimise a humanoid robotics fleet and AI data-collection system, ensuring maximum uptime through monitoring, preventive maintenance and rapid troubleshooting. Configure robots and sensors, run data-collection experiments, and manage dataset labelling and storage for imitation learning. Permanent night shift (10:30pm-7:00am) with occasional travel.
Humanoid London
Leads Humanoid's AI research and engineering function as a player-coach, spending at least half of the first year on direct technical work: designing Transformer-based models and experiments, reviewing code, inspecting data, debugging training, and examining robot rollouts. Owns the research roadmap, data strategy, and offline/real-world evaluation systems, and builds a small team of researchers and engineers.
A degree in robotics, computer science, or a related field is essential, and a PhD is often required for senior roles.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, programming proficiency, and the ability to work collaboratively are crucial.
Working hours can vary, but they often involve a mix of lab work, meetings, and writing, which can extend beyond standard office hours.
Career progression typically involves moving from junior roles to senior and principal positions, with increasing responsibility and leadership.
Salaries vary based on experience and location. For more detailed information, please refer to the salary section on this page.
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