Postdoctoral Research Associate - Robotics Institute

About the role

Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute is searching for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to carry out advanced independent and/or directed research to achieve the objectives of the research project. This position will require an in-depth knowledge of a specialized field, process, or discipline and may involve organizing and implementing complex research plans, the development of methods of research, testing and data collection, analysis and evaluation, and writing reports which contain descriptive, analytical and evaluative content. The purpose of this role is to acquire the professional skills needed to pursue a career path of the candidate's choosing.

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to work on 3D Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models for robotics and embodied AI. The position will focus on developing new methods that combine 3D perception, visual representation learning, language understanding, and action generation for intelligent robotic systems.

Responsibilities

• Recruit participants for research studies.
• Perform approved research project tasks according to defined protocols and procedures, including appropriate collection, recording, storage, and analysis of data, and reporting of results.
• Ensure the proper preparation and calibration of equipment for research projects.
• Maintain appropriate equipment usage by adhering to laboratory standards.
• Communicate progress regularly to the project sponsor, including preparing and presenting weekly updates on research progress, technical challenges, experimental results, milestones, and next steps. The candidate should be comfortable explaining complex technical ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Collect and analyze data, including conducting periodical/literature searches and utilizing specialized skills in the related field to analyze collected data.
• Conduct research experiments within the predetermined research scope and methodology of the department and university.
• Lab maintenance, including equipment maintenance and ordering of supplies, may be required depending on area and specialty.
• Participate/assist in manuscript writing for publication in scientific journals and/or presentations. May also assist in grant writing.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Doctorate Degree.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits.
• Ample paid time off and observed holidays.
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.
• Access to a Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs.
• Fitness center access.
• Additional perks and benefits as outlined on the Benefits page.

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Position Type: Postdoctoral Associate / Fellow (Fixed Term), Full time