Fellow positions in Bioinspired Soft Robotics

ABOUT US

At IIT we work enthusiastically to develop human-centered Science and Technology to tackle some of the most pressing societal challenges of our times and transfer these technologies to the production system and society. Our Genoa headquarters are strictly interconnected with the other 11 centers around Italy and two outstations based in the US. We promote excellence in basic and applied research such as neuroscience and cognition, humanoid technologies and robotics, nanotechnology, materials for a truly multidisciplinary scientific experience.

YOUR TEAM

The Bioinspired Soft Robotics Research Line (BSR, https://bsr.iit.it/) is recruiting Research Fellows with diverse backgrounds, focusing on bioinspired and soft robotics applications.

The open positions are part of the following projects:

• Towards New Frontiers for Distributed Environmental Monitoring based on an Ecosystem of Plant Seed-Like Soft Robots – I-SEED (FET-Proactive Grant Agreement 101017940)
• Forest Intelligence: Robotic Networks Inspired by the Wood Wide Web - I-WOOD (ERC Grant Agreement 101003304) - CUP J55F21000750006

The BSR Research Line aims to design and develop innovative robotic solutions and advanced components by drawing inspiration from nature. Operating in a dynamic, international, and multidisciplinary environment, the group integrates engineering and biology, utilizing plants and soft-bodied animals as biological models. Scientific research activities, involving in-depth analyses and investigations of biological mechanisms, are coupled with the development of application-driven robotic solutions and technology transfer for monitoring, manipulating, and exploring unstructured environments, both above and below ground.

As a member of this team, you will collaborate with biologists, engineers, material scientists, and computer scientists. Your role will involve contributing to the study and development of advanced bioinspired robotic systems inspired by plant seeds capable of moving and monitoring the environment through hygromorphic actuation (I-Seed); systems inspired by elephant trunks capable of performing manipulation tasks (Proboscis); and systems inspired by plant roots and fungal networks capable of exploring the underground (I-Wood).

The position encompasses theoretical and hands-on research, collaboration with Post Docs, PhDs, and MSc students, and the preparation of scientific publications. The ideal candidate must be capable of collaborating with a large, international, and multidisciplinary team.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

Multiple backgrounds will be considered. Applicants should possess a Master’s degree in one of the following fields or a related area:

• Mechanical engineering, Manufacturing;
• Mechatronic Engineering, Robotics, Electronics;
• Computer Science, Mathematics, Mathematical Engineering;
• Chemistry, Material Science, Material Engineering.

Essential qualifications include:

• Analytical reasoning;
• Strong communication and English language skills (both written and spoken);
• Teamwork;
• The ability to properly report, organize, and publish research data.

ADDITIONAL SKILLS

• Experience in the bioinspired and soft robotics field;
• Experience in the design and realization of experimental robotic systems;
• Laboratory experiences (mechanical/electronic);
• High motivation to learn;
• Spirit of innovation and creativity;
• Proficient in time and priority management;
• Ability to work in a challenging and international environment;
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a highly interdisciplinary environment.

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

• Competitive salary for international standards
• Wide range of staff discounts
• Candidates from abroad or Italian citizens who permanently work abroad and meet specific requirements, may be entitled to a deduction from taxable income of up to 90% from 6 to 13 years.

WHAT’S IN FOR YOU?

• An equal, inclusive and multicultural environment ready to welcome you with open arms. Discrimination is a big NO for us!
• We like contamination and encourage you to mingle and discover what other people are up to in our labs!
• If paperwork is not your piece of cake, we got you! There’s a specialized team working to help you with that, especially during your relocation!
• If you are a startupper or a business-minded person, you will find some exceptionally gifted professionals ready to nurture and guide your attitude and aspirations.
• If you want your work to have a real impact, in IIT you will find an innovative and stimulating culture that drives our mission to contribute to the improvement and well-being of society!
• We stick to our values! Integrity, courage, societal responsibility and inclusivity are the values we believe in! They define us and our actions in our everyday life. They guide us to accomplish IIT mission!

If you feel this tickles your appetite for change, do not hesitate and apply!

Please submit your application using the online form and including a detailed CV, university transcripts, cover letter (outlining motivation, experience and qualifications) and contact details of 2 references.

The call will remain open until the positions are filled

We inform you that the information you provide will be used solely for the purposes of evaluating and selecting professional profiles in order to meet the requirements of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia.

Your data will be processed by Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, based in Genoa, Via Morego 30, acting as Data Controller, in compliance with the rules on protection of personal data, including those related to data security.

Please also note that, pursuant to articles 15 et. seq. of European Regulation no. 679/2016 (General Data Protection Regulation), you may exercise your rights at any time by contacting the Data Protection Officer (phone Tel: +39 010 28961 - email: dpo@iit.it - kindly note that this e-mail address is exclusively reserved for handling data protection issues. Please, do not use this e-mail address to send any document and/or request of information about this opening).