Postdoctoral Researcher in Robotics Manipulation

Your role

The successful candidate is expected to assume a leading role in defining, acquiring, managing, and scientifically contributing to projects in Robotic Manipulation for Space Robotics. The candidate will carry a leading role in this area and support PhD candidates in their thesis research. The candidate will work closely with Prof. Carol Martinez, Prof. Olivares-Mendez, and the members of the Space Robotics (SpaceR) research group (www.spacer.lu).

The group works across the entire spectrum of space robotics research and applied research to conceive and demonstrate future orbital and planetary space robotics paradigms on in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing, space debris removal, XR immersive teleoperation, robot multi-modal perception (vision and tactile), and multi-robot cooperation. Researchers with an interest in non-terrestrial robotic manipulation will find a young and vibrant team of over 23 members fostering a collaborative atmosphere (2 Professors, 4 PostDocs RA, 15 PhD students, 1 Research assistant). SpaceR’s state-of-the-art facilities include two physical laboratories, the LunaLab and Zero-G Lab, and a new Space Manipulation Lab – dedicated environments for researchers to test their results on advanced equipment. For further information, you may check: wwwen.uni.lu/snt/research/spacer and www.spacer.lu

The candidate should develop the following tasks:

• Conduct cutting-edge research in learning-based and/or model-based control and/or perception strategies for dexterous robotic manipulation in simulated and real robots
• Support laboratory activities and experiments in the ZeroG Lab, the LunaLab, and the Space Manipulation Lab including collaboration with commercial partners, setting up robotic arms and performing software and hardware integration
• Mentor and Advise PhD thesis within the research group. Current topics include, reinforcement learning for tactile-aware manipulation skills, tactile sensing, mechanical intelligence for grasping, and multi-modal sensing for robotic manipulation
• Contribute to and/or lead the development of research proposals
• Take the lead in drafting, reviewing, and submitting project deliverables
• Support and contribute to teaching activities, particularly within the Master’s course Robotic Manipulation in Space
• Drive high-impact research dissemination by leading first-author submissions to top-tier (top 10%) journals and collaborating with fellow postdocs on high-quality publications

Your profile

• PhD in Robotics, Mechatronics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a related field, with a focus on Robotic Manipulation
• Experience setting up and operating ROS-compatible robotic manipulation: systems robotic arms, cameras, F/T sensors, sensor calibration
• Proven track record in relevant conferences and journals: At least three publications in top-tier venues: IROS, ICRA, RSS, R-AL, TRO, TFR
• Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory
• Commitment, teamwork and a critical mind

The ideal candidate should have experience in some of the following topics:

• Experience with control methods: impedance/admittance, force control
• Experience with Artificial Intelligence and deep learning concepts for robotics computer vision, tactile sensing, reinforcement learning
• Experience with robotic simulation tools e.g., ROS, Gazebo, Mujoco, IsaacSim-Gym-Lab
• Programming skills in C++, Python, and ROS framework

We offer

• Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the “University of the Greater Region” (UniGR)
• A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae, including list of publications
• Cover letter detailing your motivation for applying to the advertised research topic and/or project, including how your background, interests, and career goals align with its objective
• PhD diploma or a letter/information indicating the expected defense date
• Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. To ensure full consideration, candidates should apply by 01/05/2026 ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 24 Month
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Kirchberg Campus
• Internal Title: Postdoctoral researcher
• Job Reference: UOL08041

The yearly gross salary for every Postdoctoral Researcher at the UL is EUR 85176 (full time).

About us

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT) at the University of Luxembourg is a leading international research and innovation centre in secure, reliable and trustworthy ICT systems and services.We play an instrumental role in Europe by fueling innovation through research partnerships with industry, boosting R&D investments leading to economic growth, and attracting highly qualified talent. We look for researchers from diverse academic backgrounds to contribute to our projects in areas such as: Network Security, Information Assurance, Model-driven Security, Cloud Computing, Cryptography, Satellite Systems, Vehicular Networks, and ICT Services & Applications.