Marie Sklodowska-Curie ITN Early Stage Researcher Post in Automation of Roads Maintenance (fixed term) (ENG1387)

Applications are invited for the above post at the University of Nottingham as part of a European-funded Marie Sklodowska-Curie Innovative Training Network, “SAFERUP!” (https://site.unibo.it/saferup/en). This is a full-time position for an Early Stage Researcher (ESR) in the field of automation of pavements repair and maintenance.

The successful candidate will investigate the use of robots to repair cracks in asphalt road surfaces. We will use a bitumen dispenser installed in an autonomous vehicle to repair cracks in an asphalt road.  The purpose of this project will be to develop a robot that is able to circulate autonomously through a road, detecting and closing cracks, and demonstrate it in the laboratory and onsite.

Due to the nature of the project, we are looking for a candidate with appetite to work on machine vision, electronics, robotics, and/or artificial intelligence. Note that this is a project about asphalt roads; the project will also involve planning and demonstrating the use of the robot on asphalt materials and roads.

Due to the nature of the project, the following skills would be desirable in the successful candidate:

* Creative problem solving

* A practical mind

* Machine vision

* Robotics & electronics

Candidates must hold an excellent Masters Degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. Mechanical/ Civil/ Aerospace Engineering), enabling to register for a doctoral degree.

This Marie Curie post is full-time fixed term for up to 28 February 2022; after there is the likely possibility for appointment as a PhD fellow, until a total of 36 months, to complete a PhD. Candidates matching the required profile will be evaluated until a successful candidate is appointed. There are strict eligibility rules associated with the recruitment of Early Stage Researchers in MSCA Innovative Training Networks (http://ec.europa.eu/research/mariecurieactions/).

The provisional start date is 01 October 2020, subject to change depending on the Covid19 situation and applications will be considered until the 31 August 2020. Please direct enquiries to Dr. Alvaro Garcia, alvaro.garcia@nottingham.ac.uk (Faculty of Engineering).

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Alvaro Garcia Hernandez, tel: 0115 95 13914. Or email alvaro.garcia@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

Closing Date: 31 Aug 2020
Category: Research and Teaching (R&T)