Senior Robotics Engineer / Postdoctoral Researcher in Robotics, AI, and Lab Management at ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland

The Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) Centre for Artificial Intelligence (CAI) is seeking a Senior Robotics Engineer or Postdoctoral Researcher with lab management responsibilities (50-100%) to join the Embodied Mobile Agents group led by Dr. Jorge Peña Queralta. The position is based in Winterthur, Zurich, Switzerland, and offers a unique opportunity at the intersection of robotics, artificial intelligence, and lab operations within a dynamic research environment.

The successful candidate will manage and maintain the Physical AI research and teaching equipment, oversee multiple laboratory spaces, and collaborate with industrial partners and research teams. Responsibilities include supporting research projects, managing robotics laboratories and equipment (industrial robot arms, sensors, humanoid robots, quadrupeds), and maintaining local and cloud-based infrastructure. The role also involves contributing to applied research and development projects in reinforcement learning, large multi-modal models, agentic embodied AI systems, and open-source code contributions.

Applicants should have a master's or PhD in computer science or a related field, with hands-on experience in robotics, machine learning, deep learning, and programming. Required skills include proficiency with ROS/ROS2, PCL, OpenCV, NVIDIA Jetson, Nav2, MoveIt, and familiarity with machine learning frameworks (scikit-learn, PyTorch, CUDA, Docker, Kubernetes). Experience in server administration (Linux, networking, hardware) is also important. Fluency in English and German is required, along with a strong AI-related research track record, ideally in robotics or computer vision. The position values a 'maker' mindset, independence, and the ability to work in interdisciplinary teams.

The contract is initially for 2 years, with the possibility of extension or development into research or expert roles. ZHAW offers competitive employment conditions, flexibility (up to 50% home office), health insurance, pension scheme, and opportunities for personal and professional development. The CAI is a leading center for research in AI, with groups focused on natural language processing, computer vision, autonomous learning systems, and trustworthy AI.

To apply, submit a tailored cover letter and application via the provided portal. For more information, contact Dr. Jorge Peña Queralta ([email protected]) or Samy Shalaby ([email protected]).