Research Assistant/Associate

Job title: Full-time Research Assistant/Research Associate (1 Year)

Job Description/Job Scope

Are you passionate about cutting-edge robotics technology and its potential to transform lives? Do you have a strong background in design, fabrication, and prototyping, with a keen interest in making a positive impact on the lives of the elderly? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you!

Dedicated to developing ground-breaking robotics solutions aimed at enhancing the lives of the elderly, our multidisciplinary team of designers, engineers and psychologists aim to create a high fidelity robot that harnesses the power of computer vision, sentiment analysis, and natural language processing to engage in meaningful conversations and activities with the elderly, providing companionship, assistance, and care.

As a Research Assistant/Associate, your main role will be to contribute to the design, fabrication, and prototyping of our revolutionary robotics project. You will collaborate closely with a team of talented researchers and engineers to create a state-of-the-art robot that will act as a conversational agent and companion to the elderly. Your responsibilities will include:

• Working on multiple research projects: There will be a major research project for the Research Assistant (RA) to work on and multiple side projects that may require RA’s assistance. Research works include but are not limited to robot design, fabrication, prototyping, and HRI user studies.
  • Robot Design and Fabrication: Employ your expertise to develop the physical form and structure of the robot, ensuring its appeal as a friendly and approachable companion.
  • Prototyping and Testing: Take a hands-on approach to build high fidelity prototypes, which will undergo rigorous user testing with elderly individuals. Gather valuable feedback and iterate on the design to optimize its functionality and usability.
  • Integration of AI Technologies: Implement computer vision, sentiment analysis, and natural language processing capabilities, enabling the robot to interact effectively with users.
  • User Interaction Enhancement: Collaborate on enhancing the robot's ability to engage in conversations and activities with the elderly, offering companionship, cognitive stimulation, and assistance with housework.
  • Safety and Alert Mechanisms: Assist in the development of safety protocols, such as fall detection and notifying medical personnel or family members in case of emergencies.
• Managing logistics of the project: For instance, purchasing materials and electronics from local vendors/online platforms, getting reimbursement from research grants through SUTD Finance, etc.
• Assisting with proposal/paper writing: The RA may need to draft short proposals (e.g., UROP/SHARP UROP proposals) to recruit student researchers. The RA may also need to assist students with paper writing when necessary.         

If you are excited about the opportunity to be part of a transformative robotics project and have the skills and passion we're looking for, we want to hear from you! Please send your updated CV and a brief cover letter detailing your interest in the position to [Email Address]. Join us in shaping the future of robotics and making a positive impact on the lives of those who need it most!

Qualifications, Skills, Experience

• The applicant should have a Bachelor's/Master's in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields.
• The applicant should have proven experience in robot design, fabrication, and prototyping, preferably with a focus on human-robot interaction.
• The applicant should have familiarity with AI technologies like computer vision, sentiment analysis, and natural language processing is a plus.
• The applicant should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a passion for improving the lives of the elderly through innovative technology.
• The applicant should be able to clearly articulate ideas through speaking and writing in English.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.